Why You Should Drink Water To Manage High Blood Pressure

You've likely noticed that elders often recommend drinking water whenever a health issue arises. Got a headache? "Drink water." Feeling dizzy?" Drink water." Constipated? Once again, "Drink water." This advice isn't just a habit; it's because water plays a crucial role in improving your well-being and alleviating various discomforts.

Heart health has become a significant concern recently, even among younger people. Reports of young individuals experiencing heart attacks have understandably alarmed many. While this article doesn't claim that drinking water alone can prevent a heart attack, it does explore how staying hydrated can help manage risk factors that contribute to heart disease, such as high blood pressure.

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Role Of Hydration In Managing Cardiovascular Health

According to a 2019 study published in the journal Nutrients, drinking too little water can lead to problems with blood vessels and blood pressure, which can in turn increase the risk of heart problems.

Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Pavan Kumar P Rasalkar, Consultant Interventional Cardiology, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru, says, "Hydration is crucial for cardiovascular health because it helps maintain the proper balance of fluids in the body, supports normal blood volume, and ensures that the heart can pump blood effectively."

He adds that adequate hydration also helps maintain the elasticity of blood vessels and supports the body's ability to manage sodium and potassium levels, which can influence blood pressure.

Why You Should Drink Water When You Have High BP

“Drinking water helps in managing high blood pressure by promoting overall cardiovascular health,” says Dr Rasalkar, adding that proper hydration supports the efficient function of the heart and blood vessels.

As discussed, water helps maintain blood volume and viscosity, which can aid in regulating blood pressure. On the contrary, inadequate hydration can lead to a higher concentration of blood, making the heart work harder, which can contribute to increased blood pressure.

While high blood pressure, or hypertension, is a silent killer, it can show subtle signs. These include:

• Severe headaches
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Blurred vision or other vision changes
• Anxiety
• Nosebleeds
• Palpitations

It is also crucial to regularly monitor your blood pressure levels if you have been diagnosed with hypertension.

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How Much Water Should You Drink?

The recommended water intake varies by individual, but a common guideline is to drink about 8 glasses (2 litres) of water per day.

“For individuals with high blood pressure, staying well-hydrated is important, but it's also essential to follow personalised advice from a healthcare provider,” Dr Rasalkar advises, adding that the specific amount can depend on factors such as age, weight, overall health, and other medical conditions.

Avoid Excess Water Intake

When we asked if drinking too much water can negatively affect the body, the doctor agreed, saying that drinking excessive amounts of water can lead to a condition called hyponatraemia, or water intoxication, where the sodium levels in the blood become too diluted, potentially causing dangerous health issues, including affecting cardiovascular function.

Therefore, balancing water intake and adhering to a healthcare provider’s recommendations is crucial for managing high blood pressure safely, he concludes.