High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. While it is completely normal for a person’s blood pressure to change throughout the day based on certain activities, having blood pressure measures consistently above normal may result in a diagnosis of high blood pressure.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Most people with high blood pressure do not have signs or symptoms. However, some people with extremely high blood pressure may experience the following symptoms:
- Severe headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Fatigue or confusion
- Vision problems
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
Causes of High Blood Pressure
There are two types of high blood pressure:
Primary Hypertension
Primary hypertension has no clear identifiable cause, but it is thought to be linked to genetics, poor diet, lack of exercise and obesity. Primary hypertension tends to develop gradually over time.
Secondary Hypertension
Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure that is caused by another medical condition. Common conditions that may cause secondary hypertension:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Kidney disease
- Thyroid problems
- Adrenal gland tumors
- Certain medications
Treatments for High Blood Pressure
Treatment will depend on what is causing high blood pressure. Common treatment options include:
- Medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, diuretics, aldosterone antagonists, etc.
- Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting the amount of alcohol you drink.
The team at HMDODLLC Center is committed to helping our patients decrease the risks associated with uncontrolled hypertension and elevated blood pressure, including heart disease and stroke. If you think you may have high blood pressure, call to schedule an appointment.