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General Discussion / Depression Symptoms and Warning Signs
« Last post by abe on June 22, 2019, 05:37:03 pm »
                                                                                Depression Symptoms and Warning Signs
Do you think you might be depressed? Here are some of the signs and symptoms to look for—and tips for getting the help you need.
What is depression?

Feeling down from time to time is a normal part of life, but when emotions such as hopelessness and despair take hold and just won’t go away, you may have depression. More than just sadness in response to life’s struggles and setbacks, depression changes how you think, feel, and function in daily activities. It can interfere with your ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and enjoy life. Just trying to get through the day can be overwhelming.

While some people describe depression as “living in a black hole” or having a feeling of impending doom, others feel lifeless, empty, and apathetic. Men in particular can feel angry and restless. However you experience depression, left untreated it can become a serious health condition. But it’s important to remember that feelings of helplessness and hopelessness are symptoms of depression—not the reality of your situation.

No matter how hopeless you feel, you can get better. By understanding the cause of your depression and recognizing the different symptoms and types of depression, you can take the first steps to feeling better and overcoming the problem.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression varies from person to person, but there are some common signs and symptoms. It’s important to remember that these symptoms can be part of life’s normal lows. But the more symptoms you have, the stronger they are, and the longer they’ve lasted—the more likely it is that you’re dealing with depression.
10 common symptoms of depression:

        Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. A bleak outlook—nothing will ever get better and there’s nothing you can do to improve your situation.
        Loss of interest in daily activities. You don’t care anymore about former hobbies, pastimes, social activities, or sex. You’ve lost your ability to feel joy and pleasure.
        Appetite or weight changes. Significant weight loss or weight gain—a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month.
        Sleep changes. Either insomnia, especially waking in the early hours of the morning, or oversleeping.
        Anger or irritability. Feeling agitated, restless, or even violent. Your tolerance level is low, your temper short, and everything and everyone gets on your nerves.
        Loss of energy. Feeling fatigued, sluggish, and physically drained. Your whole body may feel heavy, and even small tasks are exhausting or take longer to complete.
        Self-loathing. Strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt. You harshly criticize yourself for perceived faults and mistakes.
        Reckless behavior. You engage in escapist behavior such as substance abuse, compulsive gambling, reckless driving, or dangerous sports.
        Concentration problems. Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
        Unexplained aches and pains. An increase in physical complaints such as headaches, back pain,
        aching muscles, and stomach pain.

Is it depression or bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, involves serious shifts in moods, energy, thinking, and behavior. Because it looks so similar to depression when in the low phase, it is often overlooked and misdiagnosed. This can be a serious problem as taking antidepressants for bipolar depression can actually make the condition worse. If you’ve ever gone through phases where you experienced excessive feelings of euphoria, a decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, and impulsive behavior, consider getting evaluated for bipolar disorder.
Depression and suicide risk

Depression is a major risk factor for suicide. The deep despair and hopelessness that goes along with depression can make suicide feel like the only way to escape the pain. If you have a loved one with depression, take any suicidal talk or behavior seriously and watch for the warning signs:

            Talking about killing or harming one’s self
            Expressing strong feelings of hopelessness or being trapped
            An unusual preoccupation with death or dying
            Acting recklessly, as if they have a death wish (e.g. speeding through red lights)
            Calling or visiting people to say goodbye
            Getting affairs in order (giving away prized possessions, tying up loose ends)
            Saying things like “Everyone would be better off without me” or “I want out”
            A sudden switch from being extremely depressed to acting calm and happy

If you think a friend or family member is considering suicide, express your concern and seek help immediately. Talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a life.
If You Are Feeling Suicidal…

When you’re feeling depressed or suicidal, your problems don’t seem temporary—they seem overwhelming and permanent. But with time, you will feel better, especially if you get help. There are many people who want to support you during this difficult time, so please reach out!

How depression symptoms vary with gender and age

Depression often varies according to age and gender, with symptoms differing between men and women, or young people and older adults.

Depression in men

Depressed men are less likely to acknowledge feelings of self-loathing and hopelessness. Instead, they tend to complain about fatigue, irritability, sleep problems, and loss of interest in work and hobbies. They’re also more likely to experience symptoms such as anger, aggression, reckless behavior, and substance abuse.
Depression in women

Women are more likely to experience depression symptoms such as pronounced feelings of guilt, excessive sleeping, overeating, and weight gain. Depression in women is also impacted by hormonal factors during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. In fact, postpartum depression affects up to 1 in 7 women experience depression following childbirth.
Depression in teens

Irritability, anger, and agitation are often the most noticeable symptoms in depressed teens—not sadness. They may also complain of headaches, stomachaches, or other physical pains.
Depression in older adults

Older adults tend to complain more about the physical rather than the emotional signs and symptoms of depression: things like fatigue, unexplained aches and pains, and memory problems. They may also neglect their personal appearance and stop taking critical medications for their health.
Types of depression

Depression comes in many shapes and forms. Knowing what type of depression you have can help you manage your symptoms and get the most effective treatment.
Major depression

Major depression is much less common than mild or moderate depression and is characterized by severe, relentless symptoms.

    Left untreated, major depression typically lasts for about six months.
    Some people experience just a single depressive episode in their lifetime, but major depression can be a recurring disorder.

Atypical depression

Atypical depression is a common subtype of major depression with a specific symptom pattern. It responds better to some therapies and medications than others, so identifying it can be helpful.

    People with atypical depression experience a temporary mood lift in response to positive events, such as after receiving good news or while out with friends.
    Other symptoms of atypical depression include weight gain, increased appetite, sleeping excessively, a heavy feeling in the arms and legs, and sensitivity to rejection.

Dysthymia (recurrent, mild depression)

Dysthymia is a type of chronic “low-grade” depression. More days than not, you feel mildly or moderately depressed, although you may have brief periods of normal mood.

    The symptoms of dysthymia are not as strong as the symptoms of major depression, but they last a long time (at least two years).
    Some people also experience major depressive episodes on top of dysthymia, a condition known as “double depression.”
    If you suffer from dysthymia, you may feel like you’ve always been depressed. Or you may think that your continuous low mood is “just the way you are.”

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

For some people, the reduced daylight hours of winter lead to a form of depression known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD affects about 1% to 2% of the population, particularly women and young people. SAD can make you feel like a completely different person to who you are in the summer: hopeless, sad, tense, or stressed, with no interest in friends or activities you normally love. SAD usually begins in fall or winter when the days become shorter and remains until the brighter days of spring.
Depression causes and risk factors
While some illnesses have a specific medical cause, making treatment straightforward, depression is more complicated. Depression is not just the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain that can be simply cured with medication. It’s caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. In other words, your lifestyle choices, relationships, and coping skills matter just as much—if not more so—than genetics.

Risk factors that make you more vulnerable to depression include:

    Loneliness and isolation
    Lack of social support
    Recent stressful life experiences
    Family history of depression
    Marital or relationship problems
    Financial strain
    Early childhood trauma or abuse
    Alcohol or drug abuse
    Unemployment or underemployment
    Health problems or chronic pain

The cause of your depression helps determine the treatment

Understanding the underlying cause of your depression may help you overcome the problem. For example, if you are depressed because of a dead-end job, the best treatment might be finding a more satisfying career rather than simply taking an antidepressant. If you are new to an area and feeling lonely and sad, finding new friends will probably give you more of a mood boost than going to therapy. In such cases, the depression is remedied by changing the situation.
What you can do to feel better

When you’re depressed, it can feel like there’s no light at the end of the tunnel. But there are many things you can do to lift and stabilize your mood. The key is to start with a few small goals and slowly build from there, trying to do a little more each day. Feeling better takes time, but you can get there by making positive choices for yourself.
To cope with depression
Woman comforting friend Reach out to other people. Isolation fuels depression, so reach out to friends and loved ones, even if you feel like being alone or don’t want to be a burden to others. The simple act of talking to someone face-to-face about how you feel can be an enormous help. The person you talk to doesn’t have to be able to fix you. He or she just needs to be a good listener—someone who’ll listen attentively without being distracted or judging you.

Get moving. When you’re depressed, just getting out of bed can seem daunting, let alone exercising. But regular exercise can be as effective as antidepressant medication in countering the symptoms of depression. Take a short walk or put some music on and dance around. Start with small activities and build up from there.

Eat a mood boosting diet. Reduce your intake of foods that can adversely affect your mood, such as caffeine, alcohol, trans fats, sugar and refined carbs. And increase mood-enhancing nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids.

Find ways to engage again with the world. Spend some time in nature, care for a pet, volunteer, pick up a hobby you used to enjoy (or take up a new one). You won’t feel like it at first, but as you participate in the world again, you will start to feel better.
When to seek professional help

If support from family and friends and positive lifestyle changes aren’t enough, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional. There are many effective treatments for depression, including:

Therapy. Effective treatment for depression often includes consulting a therapist who can provide you tools to treat depression from a variety of angles and motivate you to take the action necessary. Therapy can also offer you the skills and insight to prevent depression from coming back.

Medication may be imperative if you’re feeling suicidal or violent. But while it can help relieve symptoms of depression in some people, it isn’t a cure and is not usually a long-term solution. It also comes with side effects and other drawbacks so it’s important to learn all the facts to make an informed decision.
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                                                                   DEPRESSION CAN CAUSE SUICIDE:
                           WHY YOU NEED NOT TO GIVE UP :THOUGH LIFE IS UNFAIR :AVOID DEPRESSION AND SUICIDE
To be fair and sincere ,Life is unfair.You need to be strong in the journey.Generally most women face the unfair sides of the World.
Depression is a big concern because from research  89 out of 100 women are depressed ,even some never accept they have depression.Depression is a mental illness .though life is UNFAIR.

11 Quotes To Remember When Life Is Unfair
quotes to remember

Sometimes, it seems that life just doesn’t go our way no matter how hard we try. We can do everything in our power to make something work, but life might have different plans. Many of us feel as though we have no control over our lives, and while that might hold some truth to some extent, we do have the power to control how we react to situations. The next time you feel frustrated or at the end of your rope over something in life, just remember the following quotes to keep things in perspective. Here are 11 quotes to remember.
11 Quotes To Remember When Life Is Unfair.
1. Sometimes you just need to talk to a four year old and an 84 year old to understand life again. – Kristen Butler

quotes to remember

2. Whatever you do, never run back to what broke you. – Frank Ocean

quotes to remember

3. If you have nothing to be grateful for, check your pulse.

quotes to remember

4. Always remember that your present situation is not your final destination. The best is yet to come.

quotes to remember

5. When life is sweet, say thank you and celebrate. When life is bitter, say thank you and grow.

quotes to remember

6. Sometimes the bad things that happen in our lives put us directly on the path to the best things that will ever happen to us.

quotes to remember

7. Every day is another chance to change your life.
8. Look for something positive in every day, even if some days you have to look a little harder.
9. Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful.

quotes to remember

10. You have to live through the worst parts of life so you never take the best parts for granted.

11. Keep going…Difficult roads can lead to beautiful destinations.

Here are a few things to remember when life seems unfair:
1. REMEMBER NOT TO GIVE UP.

We all go through struggles in life – it’s inevitable. Think of how unsatisfying life would be without challenges, though. We would never grow and learn without going through hard times; we would simply walk around feeling stagnant and bored. Obstacles keep us on our toes, encourage us to change and continue to break through barriers, and not fall into a trap of comfort and complacency. Just because times seem tough now, does not mean they will remain this way for long. Just keep your eyes toward the sun, and you’ll eventually find that the shadows disappear behind you. Quotes to remember will help you stay positive.
2. REMEMBER TO OPEN YOUR HEART TO CHANGE.

A lot of times, we complicate life by resisting change. However, change keeps us afloat, helps us grow, and ensures that we continue evolving and learning important lessons. No one said change feels comfortable, but if it did, would it really be worth it? If you haven’t noticed, the best things happen in life when we reach a crossroads, when life seems so dark and depressing that we can’t imagine it getting any better. Usually, when you’ve reached your limit and can’t imagine going on any longer, this exasperation and desperation actually shows you the right path to take. Nothing good in life comes easily, but it wouldn’t feel nearly as satisfying if it just fell into your lap.
3. REMEMBER THAT YOU HAVE A CHOICE.

At any point in time, you have the power to control your life – no outside force decides what job you will take, where you will live, or what attitude you will have. Everything lies in your hands, so instead of fearing or denying this responsibility, embrace it. You don’t have to work at a job you hate, or live somewhere that doesn’t make your heart happy, or stay in a relationship just because it feels safe. The moment you notice yourself falling out of love with life, you need to step back and reevaluate what decisions you’ve made thus far.

Remember, feeling broken just means that we need to make better choices for ourselves, so give yourself the opportunity to do so. You deserve to feel happy, but sometimes, it takes some elbow grease and a total upheaval in life to get there.
4. REMEMBER THAT PAIN DOESN’T LAST FOREVER.

Pain never goes on forever; if it did, we wouldn’t even know what happiness feels like. Just as we said before, life works in a realm of duality – we must feel sadness and despair to know joy, as frustrating as that might seem. Remember also that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable – instead of fighting these feelings, allow them to just pass through you. What you resist persists, so the longer you go to war with your innermost feelings, the longer they will linger. Embrace the pain, learn and grow from it, and thank it for teaching you valuable lessons. Pain can serve as a very valuable teacher if we accept it instead of condemning it and wishing it would leave us alone.
5. REMEMBER TO FOCUS ON ALL THE GOOD IN YOUR LIFE.

Oftentimes when we feel broken, we tend to just fixate on everything wrong in our lives instead of everything going right. Even if you can only feel thankful for getting out of bed this morning, extending gratitude toward life helps more goodness flow your way. If you focus your attention on everything going badly, guess what? You will only attract more of the same. Countless studies have linked gratitude with better relationships, improved health, a more optimistic attitude about life, and much more. These quotes to remember are just amazing to lead a positive life.

    Taking too much on can  leads to Depression
   
Then, What is depression?
 
     Depression is Sadness, feeling down, having a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities - these are symptoms familiar to all of us. But, if they persist and affect our life substantially, it may be depression.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 7.6 percent of people over the age of 12 have depression in any 2-week period. This is substantial and shows the scale of the issue.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the most common illness worldwide and the leading cause of disability. They estimate that 350 million people are affected by depression, globally.
Fast facts on depression:

    Depression seems to be more common among women than men.
    Symptoms include lack of joy and reduced interest in things that used to bring a person happiness.
    Life events, such as bereavement, produce mood changes that can usually be distinguished from the features of depression.
    The causes of depression are not fully understood but are likely to be a complex combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychosocial factors.


Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistently low mood and a feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It is a persistent problem, not a passing one, lasting on average 6 to 8 months.

Diagnosis of depression starts with a consultation with a doctor or mental health specialist. It is important to seek the help of a health professional to rule out different causes of depression, ensure an accurate differential diagnosis, and secure safe and effective treatment.

As for most visits to the doctor, there may be a physical examination to check for physical causes and coexisting conditions. Questions will also be asked - "taking a history" - to establish the symptoms, their time course, and so on.

Some questionnaires help doctors to assess the severity of depression. The Hamilton depression rating scale, for example, has 21 questions, with resulting scores describing the severity of the condition. The Hamilton scale is one of the most widely used assessment instruments in the world for clinicians rating depression.
What does not class as depression?

Depression is different from the fluctuations in mood that people experience as a part of normal life. Temporary emotional responses to the challenges of everyday life do not constitute depression.

Likewise, even the feeling of grief resulting from the death of someone close is not itself depression if it does not persist. Depression can, however, be related to bereavement - when depression follows a loss, psychologists call it a "complicated bereavement."
Signs and symptoms

Symptoms of depression can include:

    depressed mood
    reduced interest or pleasure in activities previously enjoyed, loss of sexual desire
    unintentional weight loss (without dieting) or low appetite
    insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping)
    psychomotor agitation, for example, restlessness, pacing up and down
    delayed psychomotor skills, for example, slowed movement and speech
    fatigue or loss of energy
    feelings of worthlessness or guilt
    impaired ability to think, concentrate, or make decisions
    recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or attempt at suicide

Life hacks: Dealing with postpartum depression
Life hacks: Dealing with postpartum depression
If you have recently had a baby and you are feeling low, it could be postpartum depression. Find out more
Read now
Causes

The causes of depression are not fully understood and may not be down to a single source. Depression is likely to be due to a complex combination of factors that include:

    genetics
    biological - changes in neurotransmitter levels
    environmental
    psychological and social (psychosocial)

Some people are at higher risk of depression than others; risk factors include:

    Life events: These include bereavement, divorce, work issues, relationships with friends and family, financial problems, medical concerns, or acute stress.
    Personality: Those with less successful coping strategies, or previous life trauma are more suceptible.
    Genetic factors: Having a first-degree relatives with depression increases the risk.
    Childhood trauma.
    Some prescription drugs: These include corticosteroids, some beta-blockers, interferon, and other prescription drugs.
    Abuse of recreational drugs: Abuse of alcohol, amphetamines, and other drugs are strongly linked to depression.
    A past head injury.
    Having had one episode of major depression: This increases the risk of a subsequent one.
    Chronic pain syndromes: These and other chronic conditions, such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cardiovascular disease make depression more likely.

Treatment

People sat in circle listening to person in group therapy or counseling
Counseling or therapy may help a person manage the symptoms of depression.

Depression is a treatable mental illness. There are three components to the management of depression:

    Support, ranging from discussing practical solutions and contributing stresses, to educating family members.
    Psychotherapy, also known as talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
    Drug treatment, specifically antidepressants.

Psychotherapy

Psychological or talking therapies for depression include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal psychotherapy, and problem-solving treatment. In mild cases of depression, psychotherapies are the first option for treatment; in moderate and severe cases, they may be used alongside other treatment.

CBT and interpersonal therapy are the two main types of psychotherapy used in depression. CBT may be delivered in individual sessions with a therapist, face-to-face, in groups, or over the telephone. Some recent studies suggest that CBT may be delivered effectively through a computer

Interpersonal therapy helps patients to identify emotional problems that affect relationships and communication, and how these, in turn, affect mood and can be changed.
Antidepressant medications

Antidepressants are drugs available on prescription from a doctor. Drugs come into use for moderate to severe depression, but are not recommended for children, and will be prescribed only with caution for adolescents.

A number of classes of medication are available in the treatment of depression:

    selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
    monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
    tricyclic antidepressants
    atypical antidepressants
    selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI)

Each class of antidepressant acts on a different neurotransmitter. The drugs should be continued as prescribed by the doctor, even after symptoms have improved, to prevent relapse.

A warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says that "antidepressant medications may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teenagers, and young adults within the first few months of treatment."

Any concerns should always be raised with a doctor - including any intention to stop taking antidepressants.
Exercise and other therapies

Aerobic exercise may help against mild depression since it raises endorphin levels and stimulates the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which is related to mood.

Brain stimulation therapies - including electroconvulsive therapy - are also used in depression. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation sends magnetic pulses to the brain and may be effective in major depressive disorder.
Electroconvulsive therapy

Severe cases of depression that have not responded to drug treatment may benefit from electroconvulsive therapy (ECT); this is particularly effective for psychotic depression.
Types
Unipolar and bipolar depression
sad man holding his hands
Symptoms of depression include reduced interest in pleasurable activities and lower mood.

If the predominant feature is a depressed mood, it is called unipolar depression. However, if it is characterized by both manic and depressive episodes separated by periods of normal mood, it is referred to as bipolar disorder (previously called manic depression).

Unipolar depression can involve anxiety and other symptoms - but no manic episodes. However, research shows that for around 40 percent of the time, individuals with bipolar disorder are depressed, making the two conditions difficult to distinguish.
Major depressive disorder with psychotic features

This condition is characterized by depression accompanied by psychosis. Psychosis can involve delusions - false beliefs and detachment from reality, or hallucinations - sensing things that do not exist.
Postpartum depression

Women often experience "baby blues" with a newborn, but postpartum depression - also known as postnatal depression - is more severe.
Major depressive disorder with seasonal pattern

Previously called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), this condition is related to the reduced daylight of winter - the depression occurs during this season but lifts for the rest of the year and in response to light therapy.

Countries with long or severe winters seem to be affected more by this condition.
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General Discussion / WHY DIABETES COULD LEADS TO HYPERTENSION
« Last post by abe on June 15, 2019, 02:38:01 pm »
                                                           WHY DIABETES COULD LEADS TO HYPERTENSION
Diabetes is one major cause of hypertension or high blood pressure.
Secondary hypertension has specific causes and is a complication of another problem.

It can result from:

    diabetes, due to both kidney problems and nerve damage
    kidney disease
    pheochromocytoma, a rare cancer of an adrenal gland
    Cushing syndrome, which can be caused by corticosteroid drugs
    congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a disorder of the cortisol-secreting adrenal glands
    hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid gland
    hyperparathyroidism, which affects calcium and phosphorous levels
    pregnancy
    sleep apnea
    obesity
    CKD
 Overview

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition that’s seen in people with type 2 diabetes. It’s unknown why there’s such a significant relationship between the two diseases. It’s believed that the following contribute to both conditions:

    obesity
    a diet high in fat and sodium
    chronic inflammation
    inactivity

High blood pressure is known as a “silent killer” because it often has no obvious symptoms and many people are unaware they have it. A 2013 survey by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) found that fewer than half of people at risk for heart disease or type 2 diabetes reported discussing biomarkers, including blood pressure, with their care providers.
When is it high blood pressure?

If you have high blood pressure, it means that your blood is pumping through your heart and blood vessels with too much force. Over time, consistently high blood pressure tires the heart muscle and can enlarge it. In 2008, 67 percent of American adults aged 20 and over with self-reported diabetes had blood pressure rates that were greater than 140/90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).

In the general population and in people with diabetes, a blood pressure reading of less than 120/80 mm Hg is considered normal.

What does this mean? The first number (120) is called the systolic pressure. It indicates the highest pressure exerted as blood pushes through your heart. The second number (80) is called the diastolic pressure. This is the pressure maintained by the arteries when the vessels are relaxed between heartbeats.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), healthy people over 20 with a blood pressure lower than 120/80 should get their blood pressure checked once every two years. People with diabetes need to be more vigilant.

If you have diabetes, your doctor may check your blood pressure at least four times each year. If you have diabetes and high blood pressure, the ADA recommends that you self-monitor at home, record the readings, and share them with your doctor.
Risk factors for high blood pressure with diabetes

According to the ADA, the combination of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes is particularly lethal and can significantly raise your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Having type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure also increases your chances of developing other diabetes-related diseases, such as kidney disease and retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy may cause blindness.

There’s also significant evidence to show that chronic high blood pressure can speed the arrival of problems with the ability to think that are associated with aging, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. According to the AHA, blood vessels in the brain are particularly susceptible to damage due to high blood pressure. This makes it a major risk factor for stroke and dementia.

Uncontrolled diabetes isn’t the only health factor that increases risk for high blood pressure. Remember, your chances of having a heart attack or stroke increase exponentially if you have more than one of the following risk factors:

    family history of heart disease
    high-fat, high-sodium diet
    sedentary lifestyle
    high cholesterol
    advanced age
    obesity
    current smoking habit
    too much alcohol
    chronic diseases such as kidney disease, diabetes, or sleep apnea

In pregnancy

An older study from 2003Trusted Source has shown that women who have gestational diabetes are more likely to have high blood pressure. However, women who manage their blood sugar levels during pregnancy are less likely to experience high blood pressure.

If you develop high blood pressure during pregnancy, your doctor will monitor your urine protein levels. High urine protein levels may be a sign of preeclampsia. This is a type of high blood pressure that occurs during pregnancy. Other markers in the blood may also lead to a diagnosis. These markers include:

    abnormal liver enzymes
    abnormal kidney function
    low platelet count

Preventing high blood pressure with diabetes

There are many lifestyle changes that can lower your blood pressure. Nearly all are dietary, but daily exercise is also recommended. Most doctors advise walking briskly for 30 to 40 minutes every day, but any aerobic activity can make your heart healthier.

The AHA recommends a minimum of either:

    150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise
    75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise
    a combination of moderate and vigorous activity each week

In addition to lowering blood pressure, physical activity can strengthen the heart muscle. It may also reduce arterial stiffness. This happens as people age, but is often accelerated by type 2 diabetes. Exercise can also help you gain better control of your blood sugar levels.

Work directly with your doctor to develop an exercise plan. This is especially important if you:

    haven’t exercised before
    are trying to work up to something more strenuous
    are having trouble meeting your goals

Start with five minutes of brisk walking each day and increase it over time. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, or park your car farther from the store entrance.

You may be familiar with the need for improved eating habits, such as limiting sugar in your diet. But heart-healthy eating also means limiting:

    salt
    high-fat meats
    whole-fat dairy products

According to the ADA, there are many eating plan options for people with diabetes. Healthy choices that can be maintained over a lifetime are the most successful. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stopping Hypertension) diet is one diet plan specifically designed to help lower blood pressure. Try these DASH-inspired tips for improving the standard American diet:
A healthier diet

    Fill up on several servings of vegetables throughout the day.
    Switch to low-fat dairy products.
    Limit processed foods. Make sure they contain fewer than 140 milligrams (mg) of sodium per serving or 400-600 mg per serving for a meal.
    Limit table salt.
    Choose lean meats, fish, or meat substitutes.
    Cook using low-fat methods such as grilling, broiling, and baking.
    Avoid fried foods.
    Eat fresh fruit.
    Eat more whole, unprocessed foods.
    Switch to brown rice and whole-grain pastas and breads.
    Eat smaller meals.
    Switch to a 9-inch eating plate.

Treating high blood pressure with diabetes

While some people can improve their type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure with lifestyle changes, most require medication. Depending on their overall health, some people may need more than one medication to help manage their blood pressure. Most high blood pressure medications fall into one of these categories:

    angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
    angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
    beta-blockers
    calcium channel blockers
    diuretics

Some medications produce side effects, so keep track of how you feel. Be sure to discuss any other drugs you’re taking with your doctor.
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General Discussion / 15 FOODS THAT REDUCE HYPERTENSION AND HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
« Last post by abe on June 12, 2019, 11:58:39 am »
                                                             15 FOODS THAT REDUCE HYPERTENSION AND HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Changing the diet can significantly reduce high blood pressure. Research has shown that certain foods can lower blood pressure, both right away and in the long term.

Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure affects 1 in 3 adults in the United States.

Medications, dietary changes, and other lifestyle modifications can reduce high blood pressure while lowering the risk of associated conditions. Having high blood pressure increases a person's risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

In this article, we discuss foods that can help to reduce high blood pressure and provide the scientific evidence.
Fifteen foods that help to lower blood pressure

Many researchers have found that certain foods can lower high blood pressure. We look at which foods work and how to incorporate them into a healthful diet.
1. Berries
Blueberries and strawberries contain antioxidant compounds called anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid.

Researchers conducted a large study with more than 34,000 people with hypertension.

They found that those with the highest intake of anthocyanins — mainly from blueberries and strawberries — had an 8 percent reduction in the risk of high blood pressure, compared to those with a low anthocyanin intake.

Enjoy berries as a snack or sweet treat after meals, or add them to smoothies and oatmeal.
2. Bananas

Bananas contain plenty of potassium, a mineral that plays a vital role in managing hypertension.

According to the American Heart Association, potassium reduces the effects of sodium and alleviates tension in the walls of the blood vessels.

Adults should aim to consume 4,700 milligrams (mg) of potassium daily. Other potassium-rich foods include:

    avocado
    cantaloupe and honeydew melon
    halibut
    mushrooms
    sweet potatoes
    tomatoes
    tuna
    beans

People with kidney disease should speak to their doctors about potassium, as too much can be harmful.
3. Beets

Drinking beet juice can reduce blood pressure in the short and long terms.

In 2015, researchers reported that drinking red beet juice led to lower blood pressure in people with hypertension who drank 250 milliliters, about 1 cup, of the juice every day for 4 weeks. The researchers noticed some positive effects within 24 hours.

In this study, those who drank 1 cup of the beet juice every day had an average drop in blood pressure of around 8/4 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). For many, this change brought their blood pressure within the normal range. On average, a single blood pressure medication reduces levels by 9/5 mm Hg.

The researchers suggested that beet's high levels of inorganic nitrate caused the reduction in blood pressure.

It may help to drink a glass of beet juice each day, add beets to salads, or prepare the vegetables as a healthful side dish. Beetroot juice products are available for purchase online.
4. Dark chocolate

This sweet treat may lower blood pressure. A review of 15 trials suggests that cocoa-rich chocolate reduces blood pressure in people with hypertension or prehypertension.

Choose high-quality chocolate that contains a minimum of 70 percent cocoa, and consume a single square, or a piece measuring about 1 ounce, each day.

A range of dark chocolate is available for purchase online.
5. Kiwis

A daily serving of kiwi can reduce blood pressure in people with mildly elevated levels, according to results of one study.

The researchers compared the effects of apples and kiwis on people with slightly high blood pressure.

They found that eating three kiwis a day for 8 weeks resulted in a more significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, compared with eating one apple a day for the same period. The authors suspect that the bioactive substances in kiwis caused the reduction.

Kiwis are also rich in vitamin C, which may significantly improve blood pressure readings in people who consumed around 500 mg of the vitamin every day for about 8 weeks.

Kiwis are also easy to add to lunches or smoothies.
6. Watermelon

Watermelon contains an amino acid called citrulline, which may help to manage high blood pressure.

Citrulline helps the body to produce nitric oxide, a gas that relaxes blood vessels and encourages flexibility in arteries. These effects aid the flow of blood, which can lower high blood pressure.

In one study, adults with obesity and prehypertension or mild hypertension who took watermelon extract showed reduced blood pressure in the ankles and brachial arteries. The brachial artery is the main artery in the upper arm.

Researchers have also found that animals given a diet rich in watermelon had better heart health. In one study, mice who drank a solution containing watermelon juice had 50 percent less plaque in their arteries than the control group.

The mice who drank the solution also had 50 percent less low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which many describe as bad cholesterol, and they showed 30 percent less weight gain than the control animals.

To boost watermelon intake, add the fruit to salads and smoothies, or enjoy it in a chilled watermelon soup.

Everything you need to know about hypertension
Everything you need to know about hypertension
High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects millions of people in the United States. Learn about the types, causes, and treatments here.
Read now
7. Oats

Oats contain a type of fiber called beta-glucan, which may reduce blood cholesterol levels. Beta-glucan may also lower blood pressure, according to some research.

A review of 28 trials concluded that higher consumption of beta-glucan fiber may lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Barley also contains this fiber.

Start the day off with a bowl of oatmeal, or use rolled oats instead of breadcrumbs to give texture to meat or vegetarian burger patties.

Oats are available to purchase online.
8. Leafy green vegetables

Leafy green vegetables are rich in nitrates, which help to manage blood pressure. Some research suggests that eating 1–2 servings of nitrate-rich vegetables every day can reduce hypertension for up to 24 hours.

Examples of leafy greens include:

    cabbage
    collard greens
    fennel
    kale
    lettuce
    mustard greens
    spinach
    Swiss chard

To consume a daily dose of green vegetables, stir spinach into curries and stews, sauté Swiss chard with garlic for a tasty side dish, or bake a batch of kale chips.
9. Garlic
garlic is a good food source for high blood pressure
Eating garlic can increase a person's nitric oxide levels.

Garlic is a natural antibiotic and antifungal food. Its main active ingredient, allicin, is often responsible for associated health benefits.

Some research suggests that garlic increases the body's production of nitric oxide, which helps the smooth muscles to relax and the blood vessels to dilate. These changes can reduce hypertension.

One study reported that garlic extract reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive people.

Garlic can enhance the flavor of many savory meals, including stir-fries, soups, and omelets. Using garlic instead of salt can further promote the health of the heart.
10. Fermented foods

Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that play an important role in maintaining gut health. Eating probiotics can have a modest effect on high blood pressure, according to a review of nine studies.

The researchers reported more enhanced effects when study participants consumed:

    multiple species of probiotic bacteria
    probiotics regularly for more than 8 weeks
    at least 100 billion colony-forming units a day

Fermented foods to add to the diet include:

    natural yogurt
    kimchi
    kombucha
    apple cider vinegar
    miso
    tempeh

Some people prefer to take concentrated probiotic supplements every day. Probiotic supplements are available for purchase online.
11. Lentils and other pulses

Lentils are a staple of many diets around the world, as they are an excellent source of vegetarian protein and fiber.

In 2014, researchers who studied the effects of a diet rich in pulses on rats reported decreased levels of blood pressure and cholesterol. A total of 30 percent of the rats' diet comprised pulses, including beans, peas, lentils, and chickpeas.

Lentils are very versatile. Many people use them as a vegetarian alternative to minced beef or to add bulk to salads, stews, and soups. A range of lentils is available for purchase online.
12. Natural yogurt

The America Heart Association has reported that yogurt may reduce the risk of high blood pressure in women.

The researchers found that middle-aged women who consumed five or more servings of yogurt each week for 18–30 years showed a 20 percent reduction in the risk of hypertension when compared to similarly aged women who rarely ate yogurt.

The men in the study did not appear to have the same benefits, but their yogurt intakes tended to be lower.

It is important to note that the National Dairy Council in the U.S. funded this research.

Unsweetened yogurts, such as natural or Greek yogurts, tend to have more benefits. Enjoy them with fruit, nuts, or seeds for a healthful snack or dessert.
13. Pomegranates

Drinking 1 cup of pomegranate juice daily for 28 days can lower high blood pressure in the short term, according to the findings of a study from 2012. The researchers attributed this effect to the fruit's antioxidant content.

While pomegranates can be enjoyed whole, some people prefer the juice. When buying pre-packaged pomegranate juice, check to ensure that there is no added sugar.
14. Cinnamon

Cinnamon may also help to reduce blood pressure, at least in the short-term.

An analysis of three studies showed that cinnamon decreased short-term systolic blood pressure by 5.39 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 2.6 mm Hg. However, more research is needed.

Add cinnamon to the diet by sprinkling it over oatmeal or freshly chopped fruit, as an alternative to sugar. Cinnamon is available to purchase in various forms.
15. Pistachios
pistachio nuts are a good food source for high blood pressure
Consuming pistachio nuts may decrease a person's risk of hypertension.

Pistachios are healthful nuts that may decrease hypertension.

One study reported that including pistachio nuts in a moderate-fat diet may reduce blood pressure during times of stress. This may be because a compound in the nuts reduces the tightness of blood vessels.

It is important to note that the California Pistachio Commission of Fresno and the American Pistachio Growers funded this small-scale study.

Other studies have found that other nuts, such as almonds, had a similar effect.

Snack on plain pistachios, toss them into salads, or blend them into pestos. Unsalted nuts are more healthful and available to purchase online.
Foods to avoid

While some foods may relieve hypertension, others can cause substantial increases in blood pressure.

People can prevent or reduce high blood pressure by avoiding the following:
Salt

Sodium can significantly raise blood pressure. According to the findings of a review from 2013, lowering salt intake by 4.4 grams daily substantially reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Caffeine

The caffeine in coffee, tea, cola, and energy drinks can cause short-term spikes in blood pressure.

A review of five trials found that drinking up to 2 cups of strong coffee can increase both systolic and diastolic blood pressure for 3 hours after consumption.

These findings do not suggest that coffee increases blood pressure or the risk of cardiovascular disease in the long term.
Alcohol

Consuming moderate amounts of red wine may have some health benefits, but larger amounts of alcohol can cause dramatic increases in blood pressure.

Heavy alcohol use also increases the risks of heart failure, stroke, cancer, and obesity.
Outlook

A healthful diet and lifestyle can help to reduce the risk of hypertension.

Foods that may lower blood pressure include fruits, vegetables, oats, nuts, lentils, herbs, and spices.

Incorporate these into a balanced diet and engage in adequate physical activity to treat hypertension and improve overall health.

Credit:Medicalnews
5
General Discussion / OBESITY:A SECONDARY CAUSE OF HYPERTENSION,WHY OBESITY CAN KILL?
« Last post by abe on June 08, 2019, 01:54:03 pm »
                                                                    OBESITY:A SECONDARY CAUSE OF HYPERTENSION
Primary hypertension can result from multiple factors, including blood plasma volume and activity of the hormones that regulate of blood volume and pressure. It is also influenced by environmental factors, such as stress and lack of exercise.

Secondary hypertension has specific causes and is a complication of another problem.

It can result from:

    diabetes, due to both kidney problems and nerve damage
    kidney disease
    pheochromocytoma, a rare cancer of an adrenal gland
    Cushing syndrome, which can be caused by corticosteroid drugs
    congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a disorder of the cortisol-secreting adrenal glands
    hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid gland
    hyperparathyroidism, which affects calcium and phosphorous levels
    pregnancy
    sleep apnea
    obesity
    CKD

Treating the underlying condition should see an improvement in blood pressure.
                                                                 MEANING OF OBESITY AND ITS CAUSES
Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to an extent that it may have a negative effect on health or
Obesity is a complex disorder involving an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity isn't just a cosmetic concern. It increases your risk of diseases and health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Being extremely obese means you are especially likely to have health problems related to your weight.

The good news is that even modest weight loss can improve or prevent the health problems associated with obesity. Dietary changes, increased physical activity and behavior changes can help you lose weight. Prescription medications and weight-loss surgery are additional options for treating obesity.
Symptoms

Obesity is diagnosed when your body mass index (BMI) is 30 or higher. Your body mass index is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms (kg) by your height in meters (m) squared.
BMI    Weight status
Below 18.5    Underweight
18.5-24.9    Normal
25.0-29.9    Overweight
30.0-34.9    Obese (Class I)
35.0-39.9    Obese (Class II)
40.0 and higher    Extreme obesity (Class III)

For most people, BMI provides a reasonable estimate of body fat. However, BMI doesn't directly measure body fat, so some people, such as muscular athletes, may have a BMI in the obese category even though they don't have excess body fat. Ask your doctor if your BMI is a problem.
When to see a doctor

If you think you may be obese, and especially if you're concerned about weight-related health problems, see your doctor or health care provider. You and your provider can evaluate your health risks and discuss your weight-loss options.

Causes

Although there are genetic, behavioral and hormonal influences on body weight, obesity occurs when you take in more calories than you burn through exercise and normal daily activities. Your body stores these excess calories as fat.

Obesity can sometimes be traced to a medical cause, such as Prader-Willi syndrome, Cushing's syndrome, and other diseases and conditions. However, these disorders are rare and, in general, the principal causes of obesity are:

    Inactivity. If you're not very active, you don't burn as many calories. With a sedentary lifestyle, you can easily take in more calories every day than you use through exercise and normal daily activities.
    Unhealthy diet and eating habits. Weight gain is inevitable if you regularly eat more calories than you burn. And most Americans' diets are too high in calories and are full of fast food and high-calorie beverages.

Risk factors

Obesity usually results from a combination of causes and contributing factors, including:

    Genetics. Your genes may affect the amount of body fat you store, and where that fat is distributed. Genetics may also play a role in how efficiently your body converts food into energy and how your body burns calories during exercise.
    Family lifestyle. Obesity tends to run in families. If one or both of your parents are obese, your risk of being obese is increased. That's not just because of genetics. Family members tend to share similar eating and activity habits.
    Inactivity. If you're not very active, you don't burn as many calories. With a sedentary lifestyle, you can easily take in more calories every day than you burn through exercise and routine daily activities. Having medical problems, such as arthritis, can lead to decreased activity, which contributes to weight gain.
    Unhealthy diet. A diet that's high in calories, lacking in fruits and vegetables, full of fast food, and laden with high-calorie beverages and oversized portions contributes to weight gain.
    Medical problems. In some people, obesity can be traced to a medical cause, such as Prader-Willi syndrome, Cushing's syndrome and other conditions. Medical problems, such as arthritis, also can lead to decreased activity, which may result in weight gain.
    Certain medications. Some medications can lead to weight gain if you don't compensate through diet or activity. These medications include some antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, diabetes medications, antipsychotic medications, steroids and beta blockers.
    Social and economic issues. Research has linked social and economic factors to obesity. Avoiding obesity is difficult if you don't have safe areas to exercise. Similarly, you may not have been taught healthy ways of cooking, or you may not have money to buy healthier foods. In addition, the people you spend time with may influence your weight — you're more likely to become obese if you have obese friends or relatives.
    Age. Obesity can occur at any age, even in young children. But as you age, hormonal changes and a less active lifestyle increase your risk of obesity. In addition, the amount of muscle in your body tends to decrease with age. This lower muscle mass leads to a decrease in metabolism. These changes also reduce calorie needs, and can make it harder to keep off excess weight. If you don't consciously control what you eat and become more physically active as you age, you'll likely gain weight.
    Pregnancy. During pregnancy, a woman's weight necessarily increases. Some women find this weight difficult to lose after the baby is born. This weight gain may contribute to the development of obesity in women.
    Quitting smoking. Quitting smoking is often associated with weight gain. And for some, it can lead to enough weight gain that the person becomes obese. In the long run, however, quitting smoking is still a greater benefit to your health than continuing to smoke.
    Lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep or getting too much sleep can cause changes in hormones that increase your appetite. You may also crave foods high in calories and carbohydrates, which can contribute to weight gain.

Even if you have one or more of these risk factors, it doesn't mean that you're destined to become obese. You can counteract most risk factors through diet, physical activity and exercise, and behavior changes.
Complications

If you're obese, you're more likely to develop a number of potentially serious health problems, including:

    High triglycerides and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
    Type 2 diabetes
    High blood pressure
    Metabolic syndrome — a combination of high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol
    Heart disease
    Stroke
    Cancer, including cancer of the uterus, cervix, endometrium, ovaries, breast, colon, rectum, esophagus, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidney and prostate
    Breathing disorders, including sleep apnea, a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts
    Gallbladder disease
    Gynecological problems, such as infertility and irregular periods
    Erectile dysfunction and sexual health issues
    Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, a condition in which fat builds up in the liver and can cause inflammation or scarring
    Osteoarthritis

Quality of life

When you're obese, your overall quality of life may be diminished. You may not be able to do things you used to do, such as participating in enjoyable activities. You may avoid public places. Obese people may even encounter discrimination.

Other weight-related issues that may affect your quality of life include:

    Depression
    Disability
    Sexual problems
    Shame and guilt
    Social isolation
    Lower work achievement

Prevention

Whether you're at risk of becoming obese, currently overweight or at a healthy weight, you can take steps to prevent unhealthy weight gain and related health problems. Not surprisingly, the steps to prevent weight gain are the same as the steps to lose weight: daily exercise, a healthy diet, and a long-term commitment to watch what you eat and drink.

    Exercise regularly. You need to get 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week to prevent weight gain. Moderately intense physical activities include fast walking and swimming.
    Follow a healthy eating plan. Focus on low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid saturated fat and limit sweets and alcohol. Eat three regular meals a day with limited snacking. You can still enjoy small amounts of high-fat, high-calorie foods as an infrequent treat. Just be sure to choose foods that promote a healthy weight and good health most of the time.
    Know and avoid the food traps that cause you to eat. Identify situations that trigger out-of-control eating. Try keeping a journal and write down what you eat, how much you eat, when you eat, how you're feeling and how hungry you are. After a while, you should see patterns emerge. You can plan ahead and develop strategies for handling these types of situations and stay in control of your eating behaviors.
    Monitor your weight regularly. People who weigh themselves at least once a week are more successful in keeping off excess pounds. Monitoring your weight can tell you whether your efforts are working and can help you detect small weight gains before they become big problems.
    Be consistent. Sticking to your healthy-weight plan during the week, on the weekends, and amidst vacation and holidays as much as possible increases your chances of long-term success.
 
6
General Discussion / A WOMEN DIED OF HYPERTENSION BECAUSE OF HER HUSBAND INFIDELITY
« Last post by abe on June 07, 2019, 02:20:54 am »
                                                         A WOMEN DIED OF HYPERTENSION BECAUSE OF HER HUSBAND INFIDELITY
Please women you need to keep living and make yourself happy,never let anything situation or condition change your destiny.
hypertension can easily get way when you worry unnecessarily.

Hypertension is another name for high blood pressure. It can lead to severe complications and increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and death.

Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the blood vessels. The pressure depends on the work being done by the heart and the resistance of the blood vessels.

Hypertension and heart disease are global health concerns. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that the growth of the processed food industry has impacted the amount of salt in diets worldwide, and that this plays a role in hypertension.
Fast facts on hypertension:

Here are some key points about hypertension. More detail is in the main article.

    Normal blood pressure is 120 over 80 mm of mercury (mmHg), but hypertension is higher than 130 over 80 mmHg.
    Acute causes of high blood pressure include stress, but it can happen on its own, or it can result from an underlying condition, such as kidney disease.
    Unmanaged hypertension can lead to a heart attack, stroke, and other problems.
    Lifestyle factors are the best way to address high blood pressure.

What is hypertension?
Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure.

This means that the blood applies too much force against the walls of the blood vessels.

Around 85 million people in the United States have high blood pressure.

Medical guidelines define hypertension as a blood pressure higher than 130 over 80 millimeters of mercury (mmHg), according to guidelines issued by the American Heart Association (AHA) in November 2017.
Treatment

While blood pressure is best regulated through the diet before it reaches the stage of hypertension, there is a range of treatment options.

Lifestyle adjustments are the standard first-line treatment for hypertension.

Regular physical exercise

Current guidelines recommend that each week, people with hypertension engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic intensity exercise or 75 minutes a week of vigorous intensity exercise.

People should exercise on at least 5 days of the week. Examples of activities include walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming.

Stress reduction

Avoiding stress, or developing strategies for managing unavoidable stress, can help with blood pressure control.

Using alcohol, drugs, smoking, and unhealthy eating to cope with stress will add to hypertensive problems. These should be avoided.

Smoking can raise blood pressure. Giving up smoking reduces the risk of hypertension, heart conditions, and other health issues.
Medications

People with blood pressure higher than 130 over 80 may use medication to treat hypertension.

Drugs are usually started one at a time at a low dose. Side effects associated with antihypertensive drugs are usually minor.

Eventually, a combination of at least two antihypertensive drugs is usually required.

A range of drug types are available to help lower blood pressure, including:

    diuretics, including thiazides, chlorthalidone, and indapamide
    beta-blockers and alpha-blockers
    calcium-channel blockers
    central agonists
    peripheral adrenergic inhibitor
    vasodilators
    angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
    angiotensin receptor blockers

The choice of drug depends on the individual and any other conditions they may have.

Anyone taking antihypertensive medications should be sure to carefully read labels, especially before taking any over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as decongestants.

These may interact with medications used to lower blood pressure.
Causes

The cause of hypertension is often not known.

Around 1 in every 20 cases of hypertension is the effect of an underlying condition or medication.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common cause of high blood pressure because the kidneys do not filter out fluid. This fluid excess leads to hypertension.
Risk factors

A number of risk factors increase the chances of having hypertension.

    Age: Hypertension is more common in people aged over 60 years. With age, blood pressure can increase steadily as the arteries become stiffer and narrower due to plaque build-up.
    Ethnicity: Some ethnic groups are more prone to hypertension.
    Size and weight: Being overweight or obese is a key risk factor.
    Alcohol and tobacco use: Consuming large amounts of alcohol regularly can increase a person's blood pressure, as can smoking tobacco.
    Sex: The lifetime risk is the same for males and females, but men are more prone to hypertension at a younger age. The prevalence tends to be higher in older women.
    Existing health conditions: Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and high cholesterol levels can lead to hypertension, especially as people get older.

Other contributing factors include:

    physical inactivity
    a salt-rich diet associated with processed and fatty foods
    low potassium in the diet
    alcohol and tobacco use
    certain diseases and medications

A family history of high blood pressure and poorly managed stress can also contribute.

Below is a 3-D model of hypertension, which is fully interactive.

Explore the model using your mouse pad or touchscreen to understand more about hypertension.
Signs

Blood pressure can be measured by a sphygmomanometer, or blood pressure monitor.

Having high blood pressure for a short time can be a normal response to many situations. Acute stress and intense exercise, for example, can briefly elevate blood pressure in a healthy person.

For this reason, a diagnosis of hypertension normally requires several readings that show high blood pressure over time.

The systolic reading of 130 mmHg refers to the pressure as the heart pumps blood around the body. The diastolic reading of 80 mmHg refers to the pressure as the heart relaxes and refills with blood.

The AHA 2017 guidelines define the following ranges of blood pressure:
   

Systolic (mmHg)
   

Diastolic (mmHg)

Normal blood pressure
   

Less than 120
   

Less than 80

Elevated
   

Between 120 and 129
   

Less than 80

Stage 1 hypertension
   

Between 130 and 139
   

Between 80 and 89

Stage 2 hypertension
   

At least 140
   

At least 90

Hypertensive crisis
   

Over 180
   

Over 120

If the reading shows a hypertensive crisis when taking blood pressure, wait 2 or 3 minutes and then repeat the test.

If the reading is the same or higher, this is a medical emergency.

The person should seek immediate attention at the nearest hospital.
Symptoms

A person with hypertension may not notice any symptoms, and it is often called the "silent killer." While undetected, it can cause damage to the cardiovascular system and internal organs, such as the kidneys.

Regularly checking your blood pressure is vital, as there will usually be no symptoms to make you aware of the condition.

It is maintained that high blood pressure causes sweating, anxiety, sleeping problems, and blushing. However, in most cases, there will be no symptoms at all.

If blood pressure reaches the level of a hypertensive crisis, a person may experience headaches and nosebleeds.
Complications

Long-term hypertension can cause complications through atherosclerosis, where the formation of plaque results in the narrowing of blood vessels. This makes hypertension worse, as the heart must pump harder to deliver blood to the body.
High blood pressure raises the risk of a number of health problems, including a heart attack.
High blood pressure raises the risk of a number of health problems, including a heart attack.

Hypertension-related atherosclerosis can lead to:

    heart failure and heart attacks
    an aneurysm, or an abnormal bulge in the wall of an artery that can burst, causing severe bleeding and, in some cases, death
    kidney failure
    stroke
    amputation
    hypertensive retinopathies in the eye, which can lead to blindness

Regular blood pressure testing can help people avoid the more severe complications.
Diet

Some types of hypertension can be managed through lifestyle and dietary choices, such as engaging in physical activity, reducing alcohol and tobacco use, and avoiding a high-sodium diet.

Reducing the amount of salt

Average salt intake is between 9 grams (g) and 12 g per day in most countries around the world.

The WHO recommends reducing intake to under 5 g a day, to help decrease the risk of hypertension and related health problems.

This can benefit people both with and without hypertension, but those with high blood pressure will benefit the most.

Moderating alcohol consumption

Moderate to excessive alcohol consumption is linked to raised blood pressure and an increased risk of stroke.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommend a maximum of two drinks a day for men, and one for women.

The following would count as one drink:

    12 ounce (oz.) bottle of beer
    4 oz. of wine
    1.5 oz. of 80-proof spirits
    1 oz. of 100-proof spirits

A healthcare provider can help people who find it difficult to cut back.

Eating more fruit and vegetables and less fat

People who have or who are at risk of high blood pressure are advised to eat as little saturated and total fat as possible.

Recommended instead are:

    whole-grain, high-fiber foods
    a variety of fruit and vegetables
    beans, pulses, and nuts
    omega-3-rich fish twice a week
    non-tropical vegetable oils, for example, olive oil
    skinless poultry and fish
    low-fat dairy products

It is important to avoid trans-fats, hydrogenated vegetable oils, and animal fats, and to eat portions of moderate size.

Managing body weight

Hypertension is closely related to excess body weight, and weight reduction is normally followed by a fall in blood pressure. A healthy, balanced diet with a calorie intake that matches the individual's size, sex, and activity level will help.
The DASH diet

The U.S. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recommends the DASH diet for people with high blood pressure. DASH, or "Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension," has been specially designed to help people lower their blood pressure.

It is a flexible and balanced eating plan based on research studies sponsored by the Institute, which says that the diet:

    lowers high blood pressure
    improves levels of fats in the bloodstream
    reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease

There is a cookbook written by the NHLBI called Keep the Beat Recipes with cooking ideas to help achieve these results.

Some evidence suggests that using probiotic supplements for 8 weeks or more may benefit people with hypertension.
Types

High blood pressure that is not caused by another condition or disease is called primary or essential hypertension. If it occurs as a result of another condition, it is called secondary hypertension.

Primary hypertension can result from multiple factors, including blood plasma volume and activity of the hormones that regulate of blood volume and pressure. It is also influenced by environmental factors, such as stress and lack of exercise.

Secondary hypertension has specific causes and is a complication of another problem.

It can result from:

    diabetes, due to both kidney problems and nerve damage
    kidney disease
    pheochromocytoma, a rare cancer of an adrenal gland
    Cushing syndrome, which can be caused by corticosteroid drugs
    congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a disorder of the cortisol-secreting adrenal glands
    hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid gland
    hyperparathyroidism, which affects calcium and phosphorous levels
    pregnancy
    sleep apnea
    obesity
    CKD

Treating the underlying condition should see an improvement in blood pressure.
7
General Discussion / DO YOU REALLY WANT TO KNOW IF YOUR HUSBAND CHEATS ?
« Last post by abe on June 04, 2019, 10:07:35 am »
                                                         DO YOU REALLY WANT TO KNOW IF YOUR HUSBAND CHEATS ?
How to Tell if Your Husband is a Good Boy or a Bad Boy

Many a woman has said that all men are dogs. This is especially true of cheating husbands.

Men chase women just like dogs chase cars. Ironically, much like dogs don't know what to do with cars once they catch them, a good man usually doesn't know what to do when he catches a woman.

For the purposes of this article, good men are loyal and protective, and like puppies, can be absolutely adorable when they're being sweet and playful. They don't usually set out to cheat, and instead end up accidentally getting themselves into trouble.

Bad men, on the other hand, are not so good. They're the sort of dog that will steal your dinner off the table when you're not looking, or push their nose up another skirt the first chance they get. They cheat because it's who they are, and they do it intentionally.

This article is going to focus on how to tell which kind of dog you're married to, and more importantly, whether your husband is cheating, or just chasing cars. When you're done reading, you should know the kind of husband you have, and what steps you can to take to save your marriage.
The 7 Signs of a Cheating Husband, and What You Can Do

You're married, and you should be sharing almost everything.

This section is intended to help a loving and concerned wife identify signs of a potential problem in her marriage, and take steps to correct it. As all relationships are also partnerships, it will focus on problems that arise when healthy levels of communications aren't maintained. Keep in mind as you read this that transparency is key to any healthy relationship. Once you've read the 7 Signs of a Cheating Husband below, you will have a better idea of how to fix your marriage.

    1
    He is being more private
    .
    This is possibly the worst sort of cheating, because you know your husband wouldn't flirt with a woman if he was in front of you, and you could see him cheating. It hurts, because you're married. You sleep together, share a bathroom, and in many cases you might even be washing his laundry, cooking his dinner, and cleaning the house. None of these are private things, so when your husband suddenly becomes more private, it's natural to assume that he's hiding something. Most of the time this is an indication that he's keeping his options open, or currently cheating. However, sometimes it can be a sign of other problems, such as a life change, or personal struggle that hes uncomfortable sharing with you. The first thing you should do is try to talk to him.
    2
    He doesn't like to go out in public with you anymore
    .
    The only reason for him not wanting to spend time with you is because of an internal or external problem in your relationship. If your husband used to like spending time together, going to dinner, or just taking a walk in the park, and he no longer enjoys those things with you, it can often be a sign he is cheating. In these cases, he might not want his girlfriend or mistress to see you and him together. In fact, many a mistress doesn't even know that the guy she is dating is married. Other times an unhappy husband will talk to friends and colleagues about his unhappiness, but in order to appear like a strong man, he'll make small problems out to be worse than they are. This later puts him in a position where he can't go out in public with you, because he's told everyone what a monster you are. Anyone seeing you together would of course realize he was just making up stories, and lose respect for him. In either of these cases, you'll notice a definite shift in his desire to spend time in public with you. Asking him to go with you to a private or intimate setting can help shed some light on his true intentions.
    3
    He starts to dress differently
    .
    When a man is interested in a woman, he makes fashion concessions on her behalf. It could be something as subtle as wearing a nicer t-shirt, or a more obvious switch, like changing from jeans to khakis. If you notice fashion changes in your husband, and he isn't making them for you, it's a sure sign he's at least noticed another woman is interested in him. Some of these changes can be relatively harmless, like a shift to collared shirts because his secretary told him he looked good in them. Other times they can be harmful, where another woman rewards him with affection or intimacy for dressing in a way that pleases her. Husbands and wives tend to verbally compliment one another less frequently over time, and it's only natural for someone to respond favorably to attention from the opposite sex. If this is what's happening, you can start of by complimenting your husband on his changes, and see he's not more interested in you than a stranger.
    4
    He doesn't smell like he used to
    .
    This is a complex one, as it there can be one or more causes. However, as a wife, your nose and your instincts will help you to sniff out a cheating husband. First, significant changes in his moods will alter his body chemistry. This will change the way his skin smells, and since you sleep with him every night, you should notice the difference. Second, dietary changes can also be a factor, with certain ethnic foods contributing to changes in the way he smells. Lastly, the soap he uses will also cause changes in the way he smells. If he's showering somewhere else, this can be a dead giveaway that things are not well in your marriage. When you see this, it's time to start working on your own body smells and see if you can't tempt him back home.
    5
    When you call, he doesn't always answer the phone
    .
    Many wives quietly accept the changes that occur over time in their marriages. Often it's done with an understanding of the trade offs involved. A wife knows that her husband may not bring flowers home every night, but he does come home to her every night. Other things don't change though. For instance, a married man will always answer the phone when his wife calls. There are very few exceptions to this rule, but one such exception is when he's with another woman. In those cases, he can't answer the phone because she's there, or he knows his wife will hear music and laughing women, and correctly assume that he's not actually working late. Changes to how he answers your calls are a big red flag that something isn't right. As soon as you notice this, it's time to shake things up a bit around the house, and work towards reeling him back in.
    6
    Your husband's social behaviors have drastically changed
    .
    If your husband was never the sort to visit office parties, but now he needs to attend them to further his career, or he's recently 'discovered' a love of something strange, like kayaking, or mountain climbing, he could be cheating. Of course, he could also be experiencing a mid life crisis, but that would be more towards Corvettes and motorcycles than kayaking and office parties. Generally, drastic changes in behavior are a sure indicator that someone else has sparked his interest in the new behavior, or he's looking for an excuse to spend more time with someone else. Either way, if he's doing these things, you should be concerned - especially if he does not invite you, or becomes upset if you ask about coming.
    7
    His friends and coworkers behave differently around you
    .
    Sadly, this is one of the most common signs your husband is cheating, but few wives see it. It happens when his friends know there is a problem in your relationship, but you don't. Everyone else already have the news that your relationship is on the rocks, and they start to distance themselves from you. Most of the time they don't even realize they're doing it. When he tells friends and coworkers about your 'problems', they naturally side with him, because they see him soldiering through work and life each day, only to returning home to his loveless home and unsatisfying marriage. The problem here is that he never tells you, and neither does anyone else. If you notice this behavior, don't be afraid to ask his friends or coworkers if he's OK. Their answers might surprise you.
Tips and Suggestions on Dealing with Cheating Husbands

You're sure your husband is cheating, but what to do?

If you're certain your husband is cheating, you should take the following steps:

    Talk to a divorce lawyer. By confronting the least appealing and most painful option first, every other step will be easier, and you'll be prepared if things don't work out.
    Talk to a marriage counselor. Sometimes outside help is needed to save a marriage, and discussing your problems with an uninvolved third party can help.
    Talk to your husband. Let him know you'd like to discuss your marriage. If the talk doesn't work, you will already be prepared with a marriage counselor.
    Don't tell your husband you know about his affair. This will only cause a fight, and is counterproductive at this stage. Later, a marriage counselor can help you understand when it's best to discuss his infidelity, so you can both put it behind you.
    Do not talk to family or friends (yet). Sharing your knowledge of his infidelity will forever color their view of him. This will strain all future interactions you and your husband have with these people. If you end up divorcing, then you can share your hurt with family and friends.
    Be prepared for the worst. While it's great to hope towards the best, your husband has already shown you he may not be the man you thought he was.
    If you can't work things out, focus on tomorrow, and let him go so you can move on.
    If you can afford to, and it will help bring you closure, you can always hire a private investigator.
credit: visihow
8
General Discussion / 33 Sure Signs Your Husband Is Cheating
« Last post by abe on June 04, 2019, 01:28:28 am »
                                                          33 Sure Signs Your Husband Is Cheating
Cheating Husbands are Actually Pretty Easy to Catch

You can usually spot the signs of his infidelity by paying attention to body language.

Many women worry about their husbands cheating but don't know the signs to look for. Instead, they blindly trust the bond of marriage to protect them from the infidelity of their husband. Because of this, many a husband gets away with cheating, even when his body language clearly indicates he's having an affair. This article will teach you to listen with your head, instead of your heart, by showing you 33 signs that indicate your husband is cheating.

1.He avoids being alone in the room with you.
Many times a cheating husband has already made up his mind about having an affair, or may already be involved in one. If he's avoiding being alone with you, it's a sure sign something's wrong with your relationship, and he knows that something's wrong.
He stops initiating casual touch with you
.
2.Couples in a healthy relationship often share little touches, such as a casual bump when passing in the hallway, or a gentle caress. These brief displays of intimacy may not seem like much, but if they stop, it's a sure sign that his mind is on something or someone other than you.
3.He stops buying you flowers or doing other special things for you
.
Men learn at a very early age to do special things for the women they love. Whether it's flowers for mom or a box of chocolates for his wife, he knows that these things are important to a woman. If you notice that he hasn't recently shown you any special signs of affection, it could be an indication that he's giving that affection to another woman.
4.He stops buying you flowers or doing other special things for you
.
Men learn at a very early age to do special things for the women they love. Whether it's flowers for mom or a box of chocolates for his wife, he knows that these things are important to a woman. If you notice that he hasn't recently shown you any special signs of affection, it could be an indication that he's giving that affection to another woman.
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5.The emotional quality of your relationship has changed
.
If your husband starts caring less about you, or your marriage, and worrying a lot more about himself, it could be a sign that he's cheating on you. A faithful husband will be focused on your future together, while a cheating husband will be more worried about his future, without you.
6.He starts keeping secrets, and not telling you little things he used to share
.
When your husband stops sharing little things with you, like stories from the office, or a challenge he might have overcome, it's a bad sign. Men aren't usually the most talkative creatures, but they have an instinctive need to show off accomplishments and successes to their wives. If he stops showing you, he's either going through a major crisis, or showing another woman.
7
He's always traveling, and you're never traveling with him
.
Some jobs require travel, however, they don't require always being alone. Your husband can plan a long weekend or special occasion with you when he's traveling. The only reason for him not to at least occasionally do this is because he doesn't want to spend time with you. If he isn't spending time with you, then who is he spending it with?
8
He is working much more, and spending less time at home
.
Much like the man who travels constantly, the man who is always at work usually has other reasons for being away so often. Unless he's a lawyer working his way up through the firm, or a doctor earning degrees and establishing a practice, he either doesn't want to spend time with you, or he's spending it with someone else. Either way, this is a sure sign of trouble.
9
What used to be 'we' time is becoming 'me' time
.
Happy couples like to spend time together. They take walks, go to the movies, and even play games. Sometimes, they just sit next to one another, while one reads a book and the other watches TV. It's about being together, and if your husband doesn't want to be together anymore, his actions will show you. Time he would have spent in bed next to you will turn into time alone in another room, which is a sure indication that something's up.
10
His sexual appetites and desires have changed
.
Physical intimacy is a cornerstone of marriage. Women learn how their partner behaves, especially his 'moves' in the bedroom. If your husband starts to shut you out, or worse, randomly starts breaking out new moves in the bedroom, you'll want to check and see if he's started reading women's magazines, or is taking lessons from another woman.
11
He deletes text messages from his phone
.
Most people don't delete their text messages, because it usually takes more effort than reading them. If he starts deleting his text messages, chances are that you have a cheating husband on your hands, or one preparing to cheat.
12
He makes and receives phone calls in private
.
This is another big red flag. Only a man who doesn't want you to hear what he's talking about takes or makes calls in private. Usually, the only time your husband doesn't want you to hear what he's talking about is when he's cheating, or talking about you.
13
He gets a second number
.
Most wives won't even notice this, but if your husband gets a nice new phone, you might check to see if it has two SIM cards. If so, what does he need a second number for, and why hasn't he shared that number with you? This is a sure sign that he's keeping some pretty serious secrets - one of which is probably an another woman.
14
He has more than one personal email address
.
Almost everyone old enough to be married has transitioned through several email accounts, ultimately deleting most of them in favor of one or two. If your husband is working full time, and keeping multiple personal email accounts, the only reason for him to have the stress of managing multiple accounts is to cheat, or to keep the door open for and old flame to rekindle the fires of desire.
15
He has more than one Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter account
.
This is just like the email account problem discussed above. If he's going to the trouble of keeping many different accounts, it's almost certainly because he's either already cheating, or planning to cheat in the future.
16
He keeps his Kik, Skype, Viber, or WhatsApp accounts private
.
Instant Messages are the new email, and because they're more private than regular SMS and Text messages, it's fairly easy for your husband to cheat on you without your knowledge. While you shouldn't expect to read his messages on his phone any more than he should expect you to read them and give a summary of the important ones, there's nothing wrong with glancing at his screen from time to time. If he's hiding it, chances are he's hiding more than just a message.
17
His body or clothes smell differently than they used to
.
Too many women overlook this basic element of their husbands. Every man has his own smell. It's a combination of what he eats, where he sleeps, the soaps and colognes he uses, and the woman he sleeps with. If the smell of his body changes, it's time to see if he's been having curry for lunch, or an affair with another woman for dessert.
18
He doesn't participate in group gatherings of family and friends
.
However much we like or dislike our relatives, spending time with them is part of being married. So is spending time with friends. If your husband stops spending time with friends and family, especially in group settings, it's a sure sign that something's wrong. Maybe he's planning to leave, or maybe he is cheating on you and doesn't want his other woman to see you together.
19
He is spending a significant amount of time with someone else
.
This one is pretty obvious, but many women overlook it in the interests of being 'modern'. Just as it's OK for a married woman to have male friends, it's also OK for her husband to have female friends. The thing that's not OK is when he's taking your time and spending it with her. If you notice that he's doing this, it could be a sign that your husband is cheating. Reel him in before it's too late.
20
He spends a lot of time helping someone else, or gives gifts to them
.
This one is tough, because some men are genuinely sweet, and naturally giving. They will help out anyone. Unfortunately, some women are not so sweet, and may abuse your husband's trust, or worse, turn it into an affair. Likewise, he might also be spending more time with another woman because he prefers her company to yours. Either way, it's a recipe for infidelity, and best nipped in the bud.
21
He stretches short trips out of the house into long trips
.
Have his 30 minute walks in the park or short trips to the store turned into hours-long excursions? There can be a number of reasons for this, but they all usually involve him preferring to spend his time elsewhere. In the case of a store, maybe there's a cute young cashier or other relatively unattached girl he's chatting with at the coffee shop, or maybe his dog walks include the understanding company of an otherwise unoccupied college girl. Whatever his reasons, none of them are good, and all point to a cheating husband.
22
He starts arguments out of nothing, and then leaves the house
.
This one seems so obvious, yet many women miss it due to being so distraught over an argument they can't understand. This is because it hits them from out of nowhere, and then they sit home wondering what they did wrong to make their husbands leave. This I sad, because a husband who starts a fight over nothing and then leaves the house is either looking for an excuse to leave the house, or not expressing his true frustrations. Both are signs of deeper problems, often involving infidelity.
23
He is extremely angry and frustrated, seemingly without cause
.
Men can be angry over life events and circumstances. It's also quite normal for him to be frustrated with things that are beyond his control, such as economic hardships, accidents, or work difficulties. What's not normal is for your husband to be angry and frustrated over nothing. If this is the case, the 'nothing' might just be a woman you aren't aware of, that he's been cheating with, but unable to express his guilt over.
24
He is defensive about everything, almost as if he is anticipating conflict
.
Few people like conflict, especially in the home. Your husband is no different, so if he's defensive about everything, and always prepared for conflict, you need to dig a little deeper. A man behaving like this is often doing so because he knows something's wrong. He knows something's wrong, because he's having an affair.
25
You stop seeing or hearing from his family as much as you used to
.
Momma's don't betray their babies, and many men tend to live by the bro code, where they stick together no matter what. If you're seeing signs that he might be telling his mother or family about an impending separation, or you've noticed that his friends aren't so friendly towards you anymore, it's a problem. In fact, this problem almost always involves another woman, and is a serious sign of trouble.
26
He begins dressing differently
.
Men don't often change their styles. If he likes jeans and a polo shirt, that's likely going to be his style forever. So, if you notice that he's traded in his jeans for a pair of dockers, or his usually conservative polo shirt for a printed t-shirt with a rock band logo on it, you might have a cheating husband on your hands. Men only change the way they dress when it serves a purpose, which in this case is pleasing another woman.
27
He starts caring more about how he looks
.
Grooming and hygiene patterns change. If your man used to be OK with slightly messed up hair, or half of a shave, and he's now carefully grooming himself, it's obviously not to impress you. In fact, one of the most obvious signs your husband is cheating on you is when he starts improving his personal hygiene and grooming habits. Don't ignore this, as it's an indication of a husband looking to please or impress another woman.
28
His overall appearance has changed
.
This one is harder to spot, but it bears mention because it's usually a sign of problems that lead to an affair, rather than the actual affair. Sometimes, when your husband isn't happy, he'll start making little changes, and the shift from outgoing to conservative, or conservative to outgoing, is one of them. If you see this, talk to him, before he gets tangled up in an affair that could destroy your marriage.
29
His tastes in music change
.
Not that many wives notice this one, because many times their husbands can have some strange tastes in music. However, if your classic rock loving husband starts listening to Tecno, there's a reason. Sometimes it is just be because he likes it, but more often, it's because the woman he's cheating on you with likes that style of music. He either wants to make her happy, or is pleasantly reminded of her while jamming out to the latest step.
30
He starts visiting art exhibits or enjoying trips to museums
.
This one might seem a little funny at first, until you learn about the young art student your husband has taken an interest in, or the history major who has enchanted him with welcoming smiles and tales of ancient Rome. If he starts finding interest in things he previously had no interest in, it's a sure sign that another woman has his interest. Take note, and steer him away from infidelity.
31
He starts attending office parties and social events he used to avoid
.
Everyone knows the jokes about office parties, and let's be honest, they're usually pretty true. So, when your husband suddenly starts attending them, it probably has something to do with the new girl in the office. If you aren't invited, it almost certainly has something to do with her. This is a sure sign of trouble in your relationship.
32
The level of attention he gives you drastically changes
.
If your normally passionless man suddenly becomes a charming powerhouse of passion, enjoy it, but pay very close attention to him. Likewise, if your man of endless passion suddenly turns cold, take that as a warning sign too. He's likely either giddy with joy in another woman's arms, or he's gone cold because she's taking all that heat and keeping it for herself.
33
He suddenly develops an interest in a new language
.
This isn't usually something that younger wives need to worry about. It's more often reserved for those who have been married a few years. In these instances, a cheating husband might discuss a desire to visit France, for example. This naturally leads to French lessons, which his wife mistakes as being an indication of a planned trip to another country. She never sees the affair his 'language' lessons are hiding. While new languages are great, be careful your husband isn't more than just new words in his mouth.
9
General Discussion / 9 Signs You Are In A Bad Relationship You Should Never Ignore
« Last post by abe on May 31, 2019, 11:29:28 pm »
                                                        9 Signs You Are In A Bad Relationship You Should Never Ignore
We all have had at least one relationship that went wrong and it affected more than just our love life. It has affected our health, our work abilities and our relationships with other people in our life because of all the walls we built. It has affected all of our future relationships because we are afraid of getting hurt again. It’s hard letting someone in after we’ve been broken, but it’s even harder when we decide to let someone in, only for that person to destroy what’s left of us.

If you are wondering if your relationship is a bad one, that could already be sign that it really is. Sometimes our gut senses things before our mind realizes them. But how can you be sure that your relationship went wrong? That it’s not what you want it to be? Look for these signs that you should never, ever ignore.
1. Insults disguised in jokes

Even if it’s said in a playful tone, it doesn’t mean it hurts less. Sometimes partners use jokes as a way to disguise insults they say only to make themselves feel better. If you say you are hurt, they will offer you an excuse that it was ‘just a joke’. But just because it’s a joke, it doesn’t mean it’s okay to say it. Partners need to respect each other and value each other’s feelings and opinions.
2. Lack of communication

When there is no communication in a relationship, that kind of relationship can never move forward. If you can’t tell your partner about your feelings or if he can’t open up to you, then there is something missing between the two of you. In a relationship, we need to feel accepted and we should be able to discuss what’s bothering us and how we feel. If that part of the relationship is missing, you are missing trust.
3. You don’t feel like an equal

Your partner is always the one to make decisions and it seems like if he is okay with something, you need to be, too. If he doesn’t feel like doing something, you are not doing it either. If he wants something, you want it too. When he makes decisions that include you, it doesn’t even occur to his mind to ask you about it. That’s not the relationship you want to be in because it will only get worse with time. If he doesn’t know how to respect your wishes, he is not worthy to be part of them.
4. You don’t feel like a priority

A healthy relationship is all about making compromises and having understanding because the two of you are actually merging two lives together. But, giving up on your life is not an option and it should never be. And if you feel like you are putting your life on hold for him, while he can’t even make time to call you or take you out on a date, then he is not worth it. You are not meant to be someone’s last resort—keep in mind that you deserve so much more than that.
5. You have make-up sex instead of talking

We all know how make-up sex can be good, and I mean really good. But if you are using make-up sex to solve your problems, it will lead you nowhere. Talking and solving issues before or after sex is necessary, but if you continue ignoring the problem after sex, that’s just a sign of a toxic relationship.
6. Your friends and family don’t like him

It’s easy to get mad at them for not accepting your partner because we feel hurt. After all, he is our choice. We feel like our friends should respect him for that reason. But, keep in mind that your friends were there for you long before he came into your life and they only want what’s best for you. Same goes for your family. If they don’t approve of him and they actually can give you reasons why is that so, that’s a sign you need to reconsider your relationship.
7. You feel relieved once you are alone

If this is not a red flag, I don’t know what is. If you feel that you are constantly on the edge of your nerves when you are around him or that you feel trapped or smothered in your own relationship, why do you even fight for it? He is not worthy of your own sanity and health.
8. You take all the weight

Their problems are your problems, and your problems are still your problems. You notice something is off? Because it is. A healthy relationship is about sharing the load, about fighting together not against each other. It’s about picking each other up and moving forward together. Using your partner to vent without even checking back on them is an extremely selfish behavior which shouldn’t be tolerated in a relationship.
9. You feel like you need to change for him to be happy

If he can’t accept you for who you are and his constant criticism is making you wonder if you should change, the only thing you should do is leave. If he is not happy with who you are, that doesn’t mean that something is wrong with you or that you need to change. His happiness does not depend on you and it’s not up to you to give parts of yourself to make him feel better.

                                                  10 Damn Good Reasons To Walk Away
No woman is a quitter, especially when it comes to the people we care about and our relationships with them.

We will fight to the last breath to make it work, but what happens when you wake up one day and the only thought in your head is, ‘I’m done’?

What happens when you feel exhausted being in your own relationship and all it does is drain you?

When do you know it’s time to give up? When is the right time to walk away? Here are damn good reasons he is no longer worthy of your time and love.
1. You are not happy

No matter what the other reasons are, if you are not truly happy in a relationship and there is nothing you can do to fix it, walk away.

Keep in mind that your happiness matters, too. If you are always the one to give pieces of yourself to make others happy but end up feeling miserable after they leave or use your own love against you, they are not worth it.

No one is worthy of you sacrificing your happiness for them.
2. Your friends won’t hear about it anymore

You have been having troubles in a relationship for what seems like an eternity now.

You looked for help from your friends and family, but they no longer want to hear about it.

They have given up on your relationship, hoping that you will do the same. What’s stopping you from doing it?
3. You spend more time crying than you do laughing

Being in a relationship should make you happy, not upset or hurt.

Having someone by our side, someone we chose to be the person to walk next to us through life, is what a relationship is about.

But if that person is making you cry instead of picking you up and making you happy, it’s time to say, ‘I’m done’.
4. You feel anxious

It’s that feeling when you are constantly looking over your shoulder, when there is no trust and when you feel like something is wrong, even when everything is just fine.

You are constantly worried about his reaction on something you did, afraid of him starting another argument. You feel sorry for the things you should not feel sorry about.

No one has the right to affect your mental health and to stress you out to the level of you losing it. Keep in mind that you deserve much more than constantly looking over your shoulder.
5. You don’t have the same future goals

The most important thing about having a future in a relationship is having the same idea of it.

If one of you is not interested in getting married or having children while the other one is dreaming about babies, there can hardly be a future there.

If one of you decides to give up on their dreams to make other person happy, eventually resentment and regret will show and affect your relationship in a bad way.
6. It’s draining you

Not only does it drain you emotionally, it drains your energy and strength, too.

It can even drain you financially, if you are the one who pays the bills and for dates. Soon, it will affect your ability to work, your concentration and sleep.

You constantly feel just so tired of everything—tired of his half-assed love, tired of being neglected, tired of being hurt. It’s time for you to put yourself first and leave him for good.
7. He is abusive

There are so many types of abuse, but none of them is acceptable.

If you feel that he could be manipulating, controlling, verbally or emotional abusive, leave him immediately. It doesn’t have to be physical to be abuse.
8. He brings out the worst in you

It seems like he just knows the way to press your buttons, to make you lose it in matter of seconds, when you were always the calm one.

He brings out the anger in you, the emotions you didn’t even know you are capable of having. He manages to bring out so much negativity, that it’s slowly starting to poison you and alter who you are.

Relationships are about bringing out the best version of ourselves. They are about supporting each other and being each other’s biggest fans.

But breaking each other and bringing out the worst is the main characteristic of a toxic relationship—one you should definitely leave.
9. He tries to bring you down

He is comparing you to other women, saying how they are better looking or smarter or funnier.

It’s his way to make himself feel better about himself by making you doubt your worth. He will try to belittle everything you do for him, for your relationship or whatever success you achieve.

No matter how hard you try, how much effort you put in, it will never be good enough. Is that kind of man really worthy of your hard work?

Is that kind of man really worthy of your love? Hell no!
10. There is no loyalty

There is a reason they say that loyalty is the most important quality in relationships.

When there is no trust, no loyalty, there is no true love. If he doesn’t make you feel like you are the only woman alive, if he doesn’t listen to you when you are upset, if he ignores your wishes because they don’t match his, dump his ass!

True love requires commitment, loyalty and trust. Love without any of those things is no longer love. It’s just pain with a pink bow on it.
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General Discussion / 6 Stages Of Grief Once You Break Up With Him
« Last post by abe on May 31, 2019, 10:54:47 pm »
                                                                      6 Stages Of Grief Once You Break Up With Him
When you end a relationship, you are not aware of the fact that it will hurt you. You think that you are strong enough to endure all those mixed emotions that are inside you. Even if you don’t know what to do with all those love feelings mixed with anger, you somehow live day by day. And you hope that every next day will be better than the previous one. But it doesn’t. It gets even worse because you have flashbacks of your life with your ex in front of your eyes.

Every time when something reminds you of him, you feel like crying and you don’t see how things will get better. And you go through different stages of grief because that is something you need to go through to be able to get back on your feet again. Here are the most common stages all people go through once they end a love relationship.
1. Denial

This is the first stage of a heartbreak and for most people the worst one. You catch yourself hating the man who promised you happily ever after yesterday. You don’t want to accept that you are in that kind of a situation and you think that if you stop thinking about that, it will pass. During this stage, you will stalk your ex on social media sites, trying to find ways to see if he has someone new in his life. You will use all means necessary to show him what he lost and that he will seek you in every other woman but he won’t find you.
2. Isolation

You will want to do this because you won’t be able to explain to all those people why the two of you broke up. You will feel so miserable and there won’t be anything that could make you feel better. During this stage, you will think a lot about your ex and your relationship and you will wonder why it had to end it like that. There will be so many things in your head in a short time and you won’t know what is right and what is wrong. But please, bear in mind that confusion after a heartbreak is something pretty normal, so don’t think that you will go crazy if you continue living like that.
3. Anger

When you end a love relationship, you will probably be angry at your former partner for some time. Maybe he is the main reason that the two of you broke up and now you feel like **** because you have to raise the kids by yourself. On the other hand, maybe that person hurt you in ways that you couldn’t even imagine and you can’t forgive him. This phase is normal and quite healthy. It is better to show your rage to him instead of keeping it inside. After you say to him everything that was on your mind, you will feel much better. There won’t be a better feeling that that because you actually did something good for yourself.
4. Bargaining

During this phase you won’t really know what you want and how you will feel after you get there. You know that you broke up with your ex and that you won’t be together again, but you still want to have some contact with him. By doing this, you will heal much faster because you won’t have a feeling that he just vanished from your life. You will feel that you can still call him and talk to him and day by day, it will be easier for you to start a new chapter of your life. By doing this, you will give the both of you a chance to fix things that were broken and to forgive.
5. Depression

When you finish a love relationship, there is a chance that you will be depressed for some time. That is a normal process and there is nothing that can save you from this. You might be having fun during the day but once you get into your 4 walls, you remind yourself about some past things. And it will hurt. You will cry but that is a good way to shake the grief away. When you finally see that you are feeling bad because of something, you will work harder to make it better. And, the good thing is that this phase will last only for a short time so you don’t have to worry.
6. Acceptance

After you go through all the stages of grief, you will finally accept what happened. That will help you to learn from your mistakes and not to repeat them in the future. Once you finally accept your breakup, you will grow as an individual and you will feel like you are finally free from everything toxic that was suffocating you. When you go through all of the stages of grief, you will laugh at the things you worried about before. And the day when you think of something like that, will be a day when you will completely heal.
Eventually, You Will Grow Tired of Talking About The One Who Broke Your Heart
There came a point in my life when my ex became old news. The misery he caused my heart eventually faded, but it took years to do so. I can thank the help of boys who posed as men; the 40-somethings that used me for one-night stands, the cashiers who texted me at midnight with a flashing “wyd” message grabbing my attention. I can thank the full year of therapy which helped me understand that the guilt I had over our relationship ending was eating me up alive more than the trauma of our actual relationship. But what helped me to get over him the most, despite sleepless nights and crimson eyes, was the simple passing of time. I hate to feed you that cliche, that overused but truthful line.

Time is what will heal you: not how many people you date while you’re taping back the valves of your heart. It won’t be falling in love again because when I felt like I was ready to take that chance again, I still felt wary of what love could do to me. It took me a solid year with my now-fiance to learn to trust again. We argued—not over the big things but rather the small, seemingly insignificant things that you wouldn’t think people would argue you over. What those tiny little fights taught both of us was how much we had been hurt in our previous relationships. Feeling secure, as simple and as natural as that, seemed like a foreign concept to us for a while. We couldn’t trust that if the other person was mad, it didn’t mean that one of us was going to stand up and leave. I look back on those early years and how mangled we both must have been to have never known true security in a relationship before we met and fell in love with each other. It was tragic.

So it took time for us to heal despite being on this new journey together. The heart is a vulnerable part of us and when it gets broken, it doesn’t just feel it—it encompasses every bitter part of that hollowness. It feels every crack, every lie, every misconception, every dirty deed and every moment when that trust, that love, was mislead. Getting over that is not an overnight situation. But you will get over it.

You need to put the time in to be sad. It’s necessary. You need to have countless nights where you cry yourself to sleep. You need to make foolish decisions. You need to find out the hard way that the love you fought so hard for was not the one for you. You need to find out he’s dating someone new and you need to go through all the pain that comes with that. You need to face the guilt, the hunger for someone new and you need to chase that new found sadness until you’re tired of it defining you. Heartbreak always heals. Believe me, it will not happen when you want it to. The happiness will begin, not when you want it to, but when you’re ready to enjoy it. Real love is out there and I assure you that it’s worth waiting for. You’ll get through this difficult time and you’ll wake up one morning, with your cup of coffee growing cold and the love of your life in the bedroom down the hall. It’s at that moment you’ll feel happy that you endured the misery of what that old love, that old heartbreak once caused you. Because in that moment, nothing will else matter: not your past, and not even your present, but your future.

                                                        You’re No Longer Worth The Fight
What can I say—I’m a fighter. I go all the way. I don’t give up when things get ugly nor when I get tired. Somehow I always find fuel for my battles. I find strength even when others would’ve lost hope a long time ago.

I never give up on people I love. You know that well, don’t you? Because you deserved to see me turning my back to you, but I didn’t. You didn’t because I thought you were worth the fight.

I thought that it’s supposed to be this hard, that love should hurt sometimes, that I have to walk miles in pain before I get to feel a trace of happiness. So I fought for you like I never fought for anyone before.

Life was hard on me but I learned not to give up easily. I fight and I try and I fall just so I’d rise again and I keep fighting for what I want until I can’t fight anymore, until giving up is the only option left.

And even then I convince myself to try one more time, that maybe this one last try will make a difference. And you have no idea how toxic this is for me.

You’re something special, you know?

I loved you. I loved you even when you gave me every reason not to.

Even when you treated me like I wouldn’t treat the person I hate the most in this world. You played games with me. You kept making promises you never intended to keep and you fed of off my pain. All I lived with you was disappointment after disappointment.

I told myself that it doesn’t matter and I convinced myself that things were going to change very soon. But things never changed with you.

Things will never change with you. You are who you are. And you don’t see that there is anything wrong with you.

You don’t see that there is anything wrong with how you treat others or how you treated me. And honestly, I didn’t see it either for a while. But I finally opened my eyes.

I can finally see you for who you are. I can finally stop deceiving myself and telling myself that you’re a good guy. You’re not a good guy.
credit: herway
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