High Blood Pressure Specialist

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure occurs when the force of the blood pumping against the walls of your arteries remains elevated for an extended period.

When left untreated, high blood pressure increases the risk of more serious health problems, including heart disease.

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

High blood pressure rarely presents obvious symptoms. That’s why it’s so important to participate in routine physicals and other preventive health measures.

Some people with high blood pressure experience nosebleeds, shortness of breath, and headaches, but these symptoms typically don’t occur until the condition has reached a severe or potentially life-threatening stage.

When should I see a doctor about high blood pressure?

Starting at age 18, try to visit your primary care physician at least once every two years for a physical exam and blood pressure reading.

If you’re 40 or older or have a family history of high blood pressure, more frequent checkups may be necessary.

What are the types of high blood pressure?

High blood pressure falls into two distinct categories:

Primary high blood pressure

Primary high blood pressure occurs for no apparent reason and develops slowly over many years.

Secondary high blood pressure

Secondary high blood pressure occurs due to an underlying issue like a chronic health problem or drug use. Common causes of secondary high blood pressure include obstructive sleep apnea, kidney disease, and thyroid problems.

How is high blood pressure diagnosed?

The team at Weingrow Wellness & Medical Center diagnoses high blood pressure during a physical exam. To do this, your provider uses an inflatable arm cuff and a pressure-measuring gauge.

Any reading higher than 120/80 mm Hg indicates high blood pressure. Depending on your health history and readings, your provider might take your blood pressure several times during the same appointment.

How is high blood pressure treated?

Often, healthy lifestyle changes like losing weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly are enough to control and manage high blood pressure.

If your numbers remain elevated despite these changes, the team might recommend prescription medication. There are several drugs used to manage high blood pressure, including:

• Diuretics
• Calcium channel blockers
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
• Beta-blockers

Following a comprehensive review of your medical history, the team can make recommendations that align with your needs.

To receive treatment for high blood pressure, make an appointment at Weingrow Wellness & Medical Center by calling the office to speak with a friendly member of the administrative staff, or by clicking the online booking tool today.