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Hypertension Q & A
What is hypertension?
Hypertension occurs when the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries is too high. In many cases, hypertension won’t cause any noticeable symptoms. However, if high blood pressure becomes severe, you may experience:
- Nosebleeds
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
Doctors generally consider blood pressure to be healthy if it remains below 120 over 80. Blood pressure of 140/90 or above usually requires treatment. Patients with blood pressure between these thresholds have prehypertension and should make lifestyle and dietary changes to lower their blood pressure.
What causes hypertension?
Researchers don’t know exactly what causes hypertension. Most patients with this condition develop it slowly over time. In some cases, hypertension may result from other conditions, such as kidney or thyroid problems.
Some risk factors make hypertension more likely. Examples include eating too much salt, having a family history of hypertension, and stress. While some of these risk factors can be changed, others are unavoidable.
Why is hypertension management important?
If left untreated, chronic hypertension can lead to several serious complications, including kidney failure, heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. To avoid these complications, patients who have been diagnosed with hypertension should take steps to lower their blood pressure.
How does Reyes and Reyes, MD, PA, manage hypertension?
Reyes and Reyes, MD, PA, offers the following services to patients with hypertension:
- Blood pressure monitoring: Reyes and Reyes, MD, PA, monitors patients’ blood pressure over time to evaluate the success of treatment.
- Prescription medication: Many patients with high blood pressure will need prescription medication to lower blood pressure and prevent complications.
- Lifestyle counseling: Certain lifestyle changes can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. The doctors at Reyes and Reyes, MD, PA, will help patients evaluate their current lifestyle and look for ways to improve their health.
How can patients improve the effectiveness of hypertension management?
Patients with high blood pressure should take all of their medications as directed and see Dr. Reyes on a regular basis. Patients with this condition should also follow all of Dr. Reyes’ recommendations regarding diet, exercise, and other lifestyle issues.
