Know the Facts About Hypertension
By: Tehseen Naqvi, MD, Holy Cross Health Partners
Do you believe that because you have no outward signs of high blood pressure that you can’t be affected? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of adults in the United States have hypertension (48.1%, 119.9 million) and don't know it.
High blood pressure, commonly known as hypertension, is a blood pressure reading that is above the normal level. This is caused when the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high and causes the heart to work harder to pump blood. Hypertension is often diagnosed by your doctor at a routine exam when your blood pressure shows a pattern of being above the normal range
Who Is At Risk?
Some common causes of hypertension include an unhealthy lifestyle, genetic predisposition, obesity, stress, and certain underlying medical conditions. It is crucial to determine if you have these risk factors and to ensure annual physical exams to prevent or manage hypertension effectively.
Signs and Symptoms
Hypertension is a silent killer. It is common that many people will not suffer any symptoms of high blood pressure, with only a small percentage experiencing headaches, dizziness, and vision problems.
Lowering Your Risk
Living a healthy lifestyle is key to lowering your risk of high blood pressure. Some of these lifestyle changes can include:
- Reducing your salt intake
- Eating a balanced diet, such as following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan
- Incorporating regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Consuming alcohol in moderation
- Avoiding cigarettes and smoking of any kind
Managing High Blood Pressure
Managing your hypertension is essential to your health and well-being. Hypertension can have long-term effects, including the potential to negatively impact the brain, kidney, and heart. You may not be able to manage your high blood pressure with diet and exercise alone, so there are medications that can help you reach your blood pressure goal. Your health provider can discuss the best approach and medications for you. It’s important to take medications exactly as directed. Don’t make changes to your treatment without consulting your doctor.
With hypertension, it is also beneficial to monitor your blood pressure at home. Consistent readings can help ensure your numbers stay within a safe zone. It is important to follow the instructions for your blood pressure monitor to ensure correct readings.
Hypertension is a condition that has the protentional to cause serious health consequences. But by understanding the causes, risk factors, and management tips, you can take proactive steps to maintain optimal health.
Holy Cross Can Help You Fight Hypertension
Looking for someone to help you along this journey? Holy Cross Health has award-winning primary care facilities with highly skilled, board-certified practitioners that provide a complete range of services for adults and children. We are here to help you stay healthy so you can live your best life. Learn more about our primary care centers.