Understanding and Managing High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Our Guide to Prevention and Treatment
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Why it Matters to Us
Every time we go to the emergency room or visit the doctor’s office, our blood pressure is likely taken. But what do those numbers mean? And what course of action should we take based on the readings?
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a serious condition that can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems if left untreated. But what exactly is hypertension and how can we prevent it?
What is Hypertension and How is it Measured?
Hypertension is a condition in which the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is too high. This can cause damage to the blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic pressure, which measures the force of the blood when the heart beats, and diastolic pressure, which measures the force of the blood between beats.
A reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher is considered to be high blood pressure. If our readings are elevated or high, it’s important to see our doctor to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan.
Symptoms of Hypertension
In many cases, hypertension has no noticeable symptoms. This is why it’s often referred to as a “silent killer.” However, in some cases, people may experience symptoms such as headache, shortness of breath, fatigue, or dizziness. If we experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see our doctor as soon as possible to get our blood pressure checked and to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.
Prevention and Cure for Hypertension
The best way to prevent hypertension is to make healthy lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, reducing stress, and limiting alcohol intake. Regular check-ups with our doctor are also important to monitor our blood pressure and detect any changes early on.
In some cases, hypertension may develop as a result of an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease or hormonal imbalances. In these cases, treating the underlying condition can help lower blood pressure and improve our overall health.
If lifestyle changes and medical treatment are not enough to manage our hypertension, there are other options available. For example, we may be a candidate for surgery or other medical procedures, such as angioplasty or a renal artery stent, to help improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure.
In conclusion, hypertension is a serious condition that affects us all. Understanding our blood pressure numbers and taking steps to prevent and manage hypertension is crucial to maintaining good health and reducing the risk of serious health problems.
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At Victoria ER, our team of healthcare professionals are here to help you, no matter what emergent health situation arises. We are here for our community, providing adult & pediatric emergency care, quickly and compassionately. With our state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to providing exceptional care, you can trust us to be your partner in good health.
