Hypertension

What is hypertension?

Hypertension, also called high blood pressure, is a chronic health condition characterized by an abnormally excessive force of blood pressing against your blood vessel walls. 

Over time, the excess pressure damages your blood vessels and organs and increases your risk of other health problems.

Hypertension is very common and develops without causing symptoms. You could be at risk of the chronic condition if you have a family history of hypertension, you’re overweight, you don’t get regular exercise, or you smoke.

What are hypertension-related complications?

When left uncontrolled, the excess pressure of blood along your artery walls damages the vessels and increases your risk of developing other health conditions. Hypertension-related complications include:

• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Vision loss
• Aneurysm
• Dementia

In addition to placing you at risk of dementia, poorly controlled hypertension can also affect your ability to think and learn.

How is hypertension diagnosed?

To be diagnosed with hypertension, you must have three abnormal blood pressure readings at three separate office visits. Your primary care physician checks your blood pressure every time you come in for a visit, including for wellness exams and sick visits.

If your primary care physician has concerns about your blood pressure, you would be advised to monitor your numbers at home using an at-home blood pressure machine. It’s not uncommon for people to have an abnormally elevated blood pressure when they visit their doctor.

How is hypertension treated?

Treating your hypertension will depend on how high your blood pressure numbers are, your general health, and your medical history. You might be able to improve your hypertension with lifestyle changes like switching to a healthier diet filled with fruits and vegetables and getting regular exercise.

If your blood pressure still remains high, the team at COR Healthcare Medical Associates could add prescription blood pressure medication to your treatment to reduce your risk of developing hypertension-related complications.

If you’re overweight or obese, the team will suggest a weight-loss program to help you drop those unwanted pounds and improve your blood pressure. Losing weight could also decrease your need for prescription medication to control your hypertension.

For comprehensive care for your hypertension from a team focused on heart health, call COR Healthcare Medical Associates or request an appointment online today.