Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a serious condition that deserves considerate care. If you live in the area surrounding Frisco, Texas, and need help with hypertension, please call our clinic at (469) 414-9660 or contact us online today!
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently high, which can cause damage to the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. One in every 3 adults has high blood pressure, and 20% of these sufferers don’t even know it. Traditionally, stage 1 hypertension is measured at 140/90, while stage 2 is 160/100 or higher. You reach a hypertensive crisis when your blood pressure is 180/110 or higher.
Blood pressures under 120/80 are considered normal blood pressures, and blood pressures between 120/80 and 140/90 are consistent with ‘pre-hypertension.’ While achieving blood pressure control under a systolic blood pressure reading of 140mmHg was once considered ‘good enough,’ we since have learned that improving blood pressure control from a systolic reading of 135mmHg down to 125mmHg can significantly reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Hypertension is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it typically does not cause any noticeable symptoms. Many people with hypertension may not even know they have it until it is discovered during a routine medical check-up or when complications develop. It is important as people approach 30 years of age and beyond to regularly check their blood pressure, so the diagnosis of hypertension can be made early in order to start treatment and prevent long-term complications.
Risk factors associated with hypertension include age, family history, obesity, lack of physical activity, a high fat/sodium/processed sugar diet with low intake of vegetables and fruits, smoking, stress, alcohol, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease. Left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health problems, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.
Fortunately, there are many ways to manage hypertension and reduce the risk of complications. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing sodium intake, and limiting alcohol consumption can help lower blood pressure.
In addition to lifestyle changes, there are several classes of prescription medications used to treat hypertension, including diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, vasodilators, and renin inhibitors. Each class of medication works in a different way to lower blood pressure, and your physician will work with you to determine the best treatment plan based on your individual needs. Some conditions, such as sleep apnea, can cause hypertension, so for those at risk for sleep apnea or those showing signs/symptoms of sleep apnea, a sleep study can confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes, simply treating an underlying disorder like sleep apnea can reduce blood pressure to the normal range without needing to start blood pressure medications.
Natural remedies such as garlic, fish oil, and magnesium/potassium supplements have also been shown to have mild to moderate blood pressure-lowering effects. Dr. Pastorek highly recommends natural treatments, specifically for prehypertension in order to keep blood pressures low enough, so prescription medications can be avoided completely, if not delayed for months or years. Dr. Houston’s book, What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Hypertension, is a great resource for those looking for non-pharmaceutical treatments for pre-hypertension. Once systolic blood pressures are consistently above approximately 135mmHg, anti-hypertensive medication(s) should be prescribed. A comprehensive list of natural foods/supplements that help lower blood pressure can be found here.
Controlling hypertension is important because it can significantly reduce the risk of complications. For every 10 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure, there is a 20% reduction in the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications. The American Heart Association recommends that blood pressure be checked at least once every two years for younger adults with normal blood pressure and more frequently for those with hypertension or other risk factors.
If you have pre-hypertension (consistent systolic readings between 120mmHg and 140mmHg), Dr. Pastorek recommends purchasing an automatic blood pressure machine with an arm cuff and monitoring your blood pressure at least twice per month.
Those with hypertension also should monitor their blood pressure at home regularly. Home blood pressure monitoring can help identify changes in blood pressure that may require adjustment of medication or lifestyle modifications. Recommended blood pressure goals for people with hypertension vary depending on age, overall health, and other factors, but a general target is a blood pressure reading of less than 130/80 mmHg.
In conclusion, hypertension is a common condition that can have serious health consequences if left untreated. While it may not cause noticeable symptoms, it is important to have blood pressure checked regularly and to work with a physician to develop an individualized treatment plan. Lifestyle changes, good nutrition, weight management, and prescription medications can help manage hypertension and reduce the risk of complications. Home blood pressure monitoring can aid in identifying changes in blood pressure that may require adjustment of medication or lifestyle modifications.
Download Blood Pressure LogTo request your appointment, please call (469) 414-9660 or contact us online today!
Pure Medicine
4645 Avon Lane, Suite 200
Frisco, TX 75033
Phone: (469) 414-9660
