High Blood Pressure
Get Tested for High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition in the United States. High blood pressure is termed a “silent killer” because it usually does not have symptoms, but can cause significant cardiovascular and organ damage. The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to get tested. High blood pressure can be controlled with lifestyle changes and medications. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to life-threatening medical conditions.
Risk factors for hypertension include being overweight or obese, not getting enough exercise, eating too much salt, smoking, and consuming too much alcohol. Other chronic conditions such as diabetes and arteriosclerosis , or clogged coronary arteries, can also cause high blood pressure.
If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may order tests to check your organs for damage. Such tests may include blood tests, urine tests, an eye exam, or imaging tests. Specific tests may be used to detect heart or blood vessel damage.
It is helpful to reverse the risk factors for high blood pressure that you can control. Some people can control or prevent high blood pressure with healthy lifestyle choices, such as losing excess weight and maintaining a healthy weight. It is important to exercise on a regular basis. You should quit smoking and not use alcohol or illegal drugs.
It is also important to eat healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, including foods that are high in fiber and low in added sugars. You should eliminate using table salt. The DASH diet has helpful food guidelines for people with high blood pressure. It is important to take all of your medications as directed, even if you feel fine. Monitor your blood pressure per your doctor’s instructions. You should make and keep all of your doctor’s appointments.
If you are at risk for hypertension or if it runs in your family, you need to make regular visits to a primary care provider to check your blood pressure. For an appointment with one of our providers at Sweetwater Medical Associates in Sugar Land, Texas, call today at (281) 494-4900 or you can use our online appointment request form.
