Hypertension is also known as high blood pressure. Many people experience high blood pressure at some point in their lifetime, and the chance increases with age. By age 55, 90% of people who have had normal blood pressure are at risk for hypertension. You should check your blood pressure regularly to see if you need hypertension care.

How do I know if I have it?

Typically, your blood pressure should be 120/80 or lower. You may not experience any symptoms of high blood pressure unless it is far out of that range or you have had it for an extended time. In that case, you may have intense headaches, chest pain, and difficulty breathing, especially when exercising.

What causes hypertension?

The cause of hypertension is often unknown. However, underlying conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, thyroid problems, and medications such as birth control pills can cause what is known as secondary hypertension.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor diagnoses hypertension by taking your blood pressure with a blood pressure cuff and stethoscope. If your blood pressure is 139/89, it is considered prehypertension. If it is between 140-159/90-99, you have Stage 1 hypertension. A reading above 159/99 is known as Stage 2 hypertension.

Is it a serious condition?

If high blood pressure goes unchecked, it can damage your heart, brain, and kidneys and lead to severe complications. Hypertension has been linked to atherosclerosis (artery disease), heart and kidney disease, and strokes. It can also damage small blood vessels in the retina, causing eye problems.

What is the treatment for hypertension?

Doctors recommend a combination of lifestyle changes and medication for hypertension care. The first course of action is to ensure you eat healthy food and limit salt. This is called the DASH Diet.

Regular exercise, quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, and reducing stress are also recommended. If you make these changes and do not see an improvement in your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication.

To check your blood pressure, schedule an appointment with Moogerfeld Internal Medicine in Statesboro, GA. These experts specialize in personalized patient care, including hypertension care. You can find more information about their practice on their website or by calling (912) 681-7111.

Published: https://nearsay.com/c/877678/47461/5-faq-about-hypertension-care