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High Blood Pressure

Hypertension: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hypertension affects roughly 47 percent of the American adult population, and about 400,000 people succumb to the condition every year.

A person is considered hypertensive if their blood pressure chronically exceeds 130/80 mmHg, Hypertension puts anyone at a greater risk for potentially life-threatening complications, such as heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and sudden cardiac death.

Whether you suspect that you have hypertension or you have the risk factors for it (e.g., diabetes, excess weight problem, or unhealthy lifestyle habits), knowledge is crucial for keeping it under control and maintaining your quality of life.

Below, we’ve provided some information about hypertension, particularly its causes, symptoms, and treatment to give you a better understanding of this deadly condition.

Causes of Hypertension

Hypertension is broken down into two types: primary (essential) and secondary. The potential causes of high blood pressure vary, depending on the type, as outlined below:

  • Primary hypertension – This type has no identifiable cause but is thought to be linked to a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, genetics, and obesity.
  • Secondary hypertension – This type is ascribed to other medical conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), thyroid problems, kidney disease, or adrenal gland tumors.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Hypertension

Hypertension has been dubbed by experts “the silent killer” and for a good reason: a person can have hypertension for years and not know it. It often doesn’t have symptoms, and if it does, they are often mistakenly attributed to other conditions.

If you experience the following, see your primary care provider for a blood pressure check:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Severe headache
  • Nose bleeds
  • Swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, and abdomen
  • Vision problems
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Hypertension requires vigilance to prevent hypertensive crisis, a medical emergency characterized by a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure. This is usually caused by nonadherence to the treatment plan, severe stress or anxiety, and other conditions.

Below are the common signs and symptoms of a hypertensive crisis. If you experience any or some of these, time is of the essence – go to your nearest emergency room or call 911 for prompt intervention.

  • Blood pressure of 180/120 or higher
  • Nosebleeds
  • Seizures
  • Severe chest pain, especially if it occurs with sweating, nausea or vomiting, rapid heartbeats, shortness of breath, etc.
  • Sudden or severe headache, especially if accompanied by blurred vision and/or unilateral paralysis of the face or extremities

Treatment for Hypertension

Managing hypertension involves routine screenings, monitoring and coordinating treatment, checkups, and patient education.

Medications are the mainstay of treatment for hypertension. Your doctor may prescribe a diuretic (medications to expel excess salt and water from the body) or a combination of a diuretic and either an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor (medication to relax your blood vessels) or a beta-blocker (medication to lower your blood pressure).

Your physician will also likely give you dietary and lifestyle recommendations, such as the following, to ensure your condition is properly managed:

  • Consuming a low-fat and low-sodium diet
  • Engaging in regular physical activity
  • Lowering or avoiding caffeine and alcohol intake altogether
  • Managing stress levels
  • Monitoring your blood pressure at home
  • Quitting smoking
  • Visiting your doctor regularly

Hypertension Treatment in Wellington, FL

For top-notch hypertension treatment and management in the Wellington, Florida area, visit us here at Advanced Medical. Our team is led by two board-certified primary care providers who are best known for their comprehensive and compassionate approach to care and commitment to guiding patients along the path to optimal health and wellness.

To schedule an appointment with one of our providers, call our office today at (561) 434-1935 or use our convenient online appointment request form.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

A rise and fall in your body’s blood pressure is something to be taken seriously. This can happen throughout the day, depending on your activity and physical state. When you have high blood pressure, you are at risk of other life-threatening medical problems. High blood pressure can also occur with other health conditions, such as arthritis.

You can manage your health better by knowing the causes of various conditions. Continue reading to find out more about the causes of high blood pressure.

What Is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is abnormally high systolic and diastolic blood pressure. These two numbers indicate the pressure in the arteries, the vessels carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Systolic blood pressure is the first or higher number. It measures the pressure when the heart beats. Meanwhile, diastolic pressure, the second number, measures the pressure between beats, when the heart rests. Your doctor can determine if you have high blood pressure based on blood pressure readings that check these numbers.

This condition usually has no severe symptoms, particularly in the early stages. You may feel headaches, nosebleeds, or shortness of breath when your blood pressure becomes severely high.

Types and Causes of High Blood Pressure

There are two types of high blood pressure, depending on the cause. Your family doctor may examine your medical history to determine what causes your hypertension.

●     Primary Hypertension

Most adults suffer from primary or essential hypertension. This type of high blood pressure has no definite cause and gradually develops over time.

●     Secondary Hypertension

Secondary hypertension appears more suddenly. This type of hypertension occurs because of another underlying medical condition in the heart, kidneys, or endocrine system. Examples are arthritis, thyroid problems, problems in blood vessels, obstructive sleep apnea, and more.

Risk Factors Causing High Blood Pressure

Some factors increase the likelihood of having high blood pressure. Although these do not directly cause hypertension, you should monitor your blood pressure closely if you are associated with these risk factors:

●     Age and Gender

Hypertension can affect people at any age. However, the likelihood of acquiring it increases as you get older. Although less common, children may also suffer from hypertension. Poor lifestyle habits and kidney or heart problems can contribute to hypertension in the younger population.

●     Family History and Race

Genetics can play a significant role in developing high blood pressure. Hypertension tends to run in families. According to studies, people of African descent may also develop the condition earlier than others. They are also more likely to develop serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.

●     Physical Activity

Physical inactivity is generally associated with a higher heart rate. It causes the heart to work harder and produce more intense contractions, leading to hypertension.

●     Weight

Increased weight means the body needs more blood supply and oxygen. When there is increased blood flow in the arteries, the pressure against the artery walls may also increase.

●     Diet

The nutrients in your diet, such as sodium and potassium, can affect your blood pressure. Too much sodium or salt can promote fluid retention in your body, resulting in increased blood pressure. Low potassium levels due to improper diet or dehydration can lead to sodium buildup in the blood.

●     Use of Tobacco and Drinking Alcohol

The use of tobacco products does not only temporarily raise your body’s blood pressure immediately, it can also cause the narrowing of artery walls, leading to permanent damage. Alcohol consumption can also lead to heart damage, especially if the intake is more than one to two drinks a day.

●     Stress

High levels of stress are associated with a temporary spike in blood pressure. Stress-related habits or coping mechanisms such as binge eating, smoking, or drinking alcohol can also cause a permanent increase in blood pressure.

●     Pregnancy

Pregnant women may suffer from gestational hypertension or pregnancy-induced hypertension, or preeclampsia. This condition can pose serious risks before, during, and after birth.

●     Use of Certain Medications

Some birth control pills, pain relievers, cold medications, decongestants, and prescription drugs may affect the body’s blood pressure. Illegal drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines can also cause hypertension.

Treatment For High Blood Pressure and Arthritis in Wellington, FL

High blood pressure affects your overall health in many ways. It should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. To get the best medical treatment for hypertension, you should always listen to the experts. Primary care physicians are the trusted and first-hand doctors who can help diagnose and treat your high blood pressure.

If you are looking for a clinic to help you with your high blood pressure, we at Advanced Medical Clinic offer medical services in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida. Our skilled physicians and staff will surely accommodate your concerns, from diagnosis to treatment.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help. You may call our friendly staff at (561) 434-1935 or fill out this online request form. We look forward to serving you.

Blood Pressure: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and Why it’s Important

Blood pressure measures the force that the heart uses to pump blood around the body, and it can go up and down throughout the day and night according to activity level. If, however, blood pressure readings remain at a consistently abnormal level, it can indicate a problem, which, if left untreated, can lead to potentially life-threatening medical conditions.

We all require a certain amount of pressure to successfully move blood around the body. Normally, blood pressure rises during the day when we’re moving about or exercising, and when we’re resting or sleeping, it usually drops, which reduces the strain on the cardiovascular system.

How Is Blood Pressure Measured?

Blood pressure is determined by measuring systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings, and it is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Systolic blood pressure measures the force at which the heart exerts on the walls of the arteries each time it contracts (beats) – when pressure is at its highest. Diastolic blood pressure measures the force your heart exerts on the walls of the arteries when the heart rests between beats – when pressure is at its lowest.

The reading is recorded as two numbers – systolic pressure is the higher number and diastolic pressure is the lower number. Readings fall into four general categories, which range from normal to stage 2 high blood pressure. To get an accurate blood pressure measurement, your doctor will evaluate your blood pressure readings based on the average of two or more blood pressure readings. Ranges can vary depending on age and other factors, but as a general guide, the readings are as follows:

·      Normal blood pressure, which has a systolic reading of less than 120 and a diastolic reading of less than 80

·      Prehypertension – 120-130 (systolic) and 80-89 (diastolic)

·      High Blood Pressure stage 1 – 140-159 (systolic) and 90-99 (diastolic)

·      High Blood Pressure stage 2 – 160 or higher (systolic) and 100 or higher (diastolic)

Low blood pressure (hypotension), which is much less common, is considered as 90 or lower (systolic) and 60 or lower (diastolic). It can be caused by certain medications, medical conditions such as diabetes, pregnancy, or an underlying condition such as heart failure or dehydration. Low blood pressure requires further investigation, and treatment will depend on the cause.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, means blood pressure is consistently too high – even when resting, and means the heart has to work hard to pump blood around the body. High blood pressure is often termed as the “silent killer,” because it doesn’t always present noticeable symptoms but can cause significant cardiovascular and organ damage and increase your risk of life-threatening health complications. High blood pressure can cause progressive damage to blood vessels by causing them to become rigid or narrow. This makes it easier for fatty material, known as atheroma, to build up in them, which, in severe cases, can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

There isn’t always an exact cause of high blood pressure. It can be related to unhealthy lifestyle habits including smoking, drinking too much alcohol or caffeine, being overweight, not exercising enough, and consuming too much salt.

Secondary hypertension is caused by another medical condition, such as kidney disease, adrenal gland tumors, coarctation of the aorta (a narrowed aorta from birth), pregnancy, and thyroid dysfunction. Often, if the source of secondary hypertension is treated, blood pressure can return to normal.

Risk of high blood pressure can increase if you are over 65, have a close blood relative with high blood pressure, have a medical condition such as diabetes, or due to certain medications such as birth control pills.

Diagnosing and Treating High Blood Pressure

Without symptoms, people can have high blood pressure for years without even realizing. The only way to diagnose high blood pressure is to have it measured – usually with a blood pressure cuff, which is a quick and painless process. A blood pressure cuff is positioned around your arm and inflated. As air in the cuff is released, a stethoscope is used to listen to the pulse. Pressure is recorded as blood returns to the arm. It is then classified as normal, prehypertension, or high.

Further tests to check your organs for damage may be requested, which may include blood or urine tests, an eye exam, imaging tests, or specific tests to detect heart or blood vessel damage.

Treatment for high blood pressure primarily consists of lifestyle changes (such as weight loss, exercise, and dietary changes) and medications to bring it back within a normal range and reduce the risk of life-threatening conditions.

Quality Primary Care in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida

If you are concerned about your blood pressure, speak to the compassionate primary care physicians at Advanced Medical in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida. At Advanced Medical, we diagnose and treat high blood pressure along with many other medical conditions and urgent care needs.

To learn more about our services, or to arrange an appointment, call us today at (561) 434-1935 or you can request an appointment online.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure in Women

Dubbed the “silent killer,” high blood pressure is something that can truly sneak up on you. It is not uncommon for people with high blood pressure to say that their condition came out of nowhere, and that they had no idea that they had a problem.

Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure rarely produces symptoms. However, the damage is ongoing – and if left untreated, it may lead to a heart attack or stroke. Many people who suffer a heart attack or stroke are only finding out about their hypertension after the incident.

Plus, many women tend to think of heart problems as being much more of an issue in men, but it is actually almost as prevalent among women. Among American women between the ages of 20 and 34, around 13% have hypertension. This figure dramatically rises to 86% by the time they reach their mid-70s.

What Is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure is the overly forceful pumping of the blood against the arterial walls. The arteries are the blood vessels that carry oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body, and the veins are the vessels that take the depleted blood back to the heart. Blood pressure only measures the pressure in the arteries.

The blood pressure in people who have this condition reads over 130 systolic (pressure in arteries when the heart beats) and greater than 80 diastolic (pressure in arteries while the heart is at rest). This indicates that your heart is working too hard. The hypertension eventually damages your heart, brain, eyes, blood vessels, and other organs.

Risk Factors and Symptoms of Hypertension in Women

If you are female and have a family history of high blood pressure, and if you are overweight or menopausal, then you are at a greater risk of developing high blood pressure. Don’t wait for a stroke, heart attack, or heart failure before becoming proactive about your blood pressure and heart health.

There are very few who experience symptoms of high blood pressure. But among those who do, they report experiencing one or more of the following:

·       Headaches

·       Dizziness

·       Blood spots in the eyes

·       Facial flushing

·       Nosebleeds

Treating High Blood Pressure

Fortunately, high blood pressure is highly treatable. You can take steps to lower your blood pressure, such as:

·       Taking medication your doctor may prescribe

·       Increasing your physical activity

·       Getting down to a normal weight

·       Reducing your salt intake

·       Quitting smoking

·       Reducing your consumption of alcohol

·       Managing your stress levels

Certain underlying health conditions can put you at an increased risk of developing high blood pressure. Diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid problems, and obstructive sleep apnea are known risk factors and should be properly managed or treated.

Primary Care Physician in Royal Palm Beach and Wellington

As part of your annual checkup, your primary care doctor will take your blood pressure to check whether it’s normal or elevated. Although high blood pressure is very common, it need not be your reality.

Dr. Ishan Gunawardene is a trusted internal medicine doctor providing superior primary care to his patients here in Palm Beach County. He can help you get your blood pressure under control and on the road to excellent heart health.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Gunawardene, contact our friendly team today by calling us at (561) 434-1935, or request an appointment now by filling out our online form. We look forward to being your healthcare partner!

 

Signs of Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can affect anyone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 45% of adult Americans have high blood pressure. Moreover, only about 24% of those individuals have their hypertension under control.

Because hypertension can cause cardiovascular disease and organ failure, it is important to have it treated by a doctor. Let’s talk about some of the main signs of high blood pressure and what you can do about it.

What Are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?

Hypertension does not always show obvious symptoms, but some of the initial warning signs include the following:

Shortness of Breath

If you find yourself having breathing difficulty even when you are not doing anything at all, you may have hypertension. This is the most common telltale sign for high blood pressure.

Shortness of breath occurs because the heart is having difficulty pushing oxygen-rich blood to the lungs. Moreover, you may have blocked or narrowed arteries in the lungs, in which case the body is not getting enough oxygenated blood.

Blood in Urine

Also known as hematuria, blood in your urine can be a signal that you may have hypertension. It happens because your blood pressure affects your kidneys and vice versa. Kidneys work as filters for your blood, so if you have kidney problems, then you are also at risk for high blood pressure.

Vision Problems

Untreated hypertension can damage the blood vessels in your retina, which is the part of your eye that is responsible for sending neural signals to the brain for visual recognition. If you are experiencing sudden vision problems, seek immediate medical care by an experienced doctor, as it may indicate severe hypertension or another underlying health condition.

Severe Headaches

High blood pressure can cause headaches because of the excessive pressure that it puts on the brain, leading to swelling. The headaches are likely to occur on both sides of the head and may pulsate and worsen when doing strenuous activities.

Vomiting

If vomiting comes along with your pulsating headache, then you may have hypertension. It may also be a symptom of stroke.

Nosebleed

While not a common sign or result of high blood pressure, having hypertension can make you more prone to having a bloody nose. Moreover, severe hypertension can cause your nose to bleed longer.

Seizure or Stroke

When left untreated, hypertension can progress to a hypertensive crisis, which is a severe increase in blood pressure. This can lead to a seizure or a stroke.

Blood Pressure Checks in Palm Beach County

Signs of hypertension rarely show until your condition is already severe, which then puts you at a greater risk of having a heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. That is why it is important to have regular checkups from your healthcare provider.

Here at Advanced Medical Clinic, we are here to be your healthcare partner. As a patient-centered and family-oriented clinic, we provide the best treatments curated for each patient.

To experience this kind of quality service, call us today at (561) 434-1935, or set an appointment online by filling out our appointment request form now. We look forward to seeing you here.

Learn about Hypertension: Four Stages of Hypertension

Blood pressure is the force of blood being pushed through the arteries that carry blood from your heart and circulate it throughout your body. It is normal for blood pressure to rise and fall throughout the day. However, blood pressure that stays high for a long period can be detrimental to health. High blood pressure puts you at risk for heart failure, hypertension, and stroke, which are the leading causes of death in the United States. 

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common condition that 75 million American adults suffer from. Meanwhile, 1 in 3 American adults has prehypertension conditions. This means that their blood pressure is not within the normal range but not quite as high to be considered high blood pressure. If left uncontrolled, prehypertension will eventually become hypertension. Unfortunately, only 54% of the people who have hypertension have their condition under control. 

Learn More About Hypertension

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a condition in which blood is pushing into the arteries with higher force than normal. This can eventually damage artery walls and cause heart disease. You may have hypertension without showing any symptoms. This is why it’s important to get regular checkups so your doctor can diagnose it early on. 

There are two types of hypertension – primary hypertension and secondary hypertension. Primary Hypertension is a type of high blood pressure in which there are no underlying conditions that cause it. It usually develops through the years due to aging, lifestyle choices, and poor diet. Meanwhile, secondary hypertension is high blood pressure that tends to appear suddenly due to medical conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, kidney conditions, illegal drugs, and thyroid problems. 

An adult’s blood pressure is measured by using two numbers – upper systolic pressure and lower diastolic pressure. The heart’s rhythmic pumping action creates the upper systolic pressure (normal is 120 mm. Hg. or lower), and its resting pressure between heartbeats is the lower diastolic pressure (normal is 80 mm. Hg. or lower). From this, doctors can determine what stage of hypertension a patient has.

Here are the four stages of hypertension:

1. Normal Blood Pressure

If you have normal blood pressure, your reading is within the normal range. It is below 120/80 mm. Hg. Although you have normal blood pressure, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle so as not to increase your risk of developing hypertension.

2. Elevated Blood Pressure

Elevated blood pressure is a systolic pressure ranging from 120 to 129 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure below 80 mm Hg. Although it is still within range, it can be an indication that you are at risk of hypertension. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise to lower the risk of it developing into something more serious.

3. STAGE 1 Hypertension

When you have stage 1 hypertension, your blood pressure reading is between the range of 130/80 mm Hg or 139/89 mm Hg. It is best to consult with a doctor immediately and find ways to lower it. If your blood pressure is this high, it might mean that there’s already slight damage to arteries and vessels.

4. STAGE 2 Hypertension

When you have stage 2 hypertension, your blood pressure is 140/90 mm Hg or higher. If this happens, seek medical help immediately. You may need to start taking medication for maintenance and make radical changes to your diet and lifestyle.

Hypertension can be maintained and controlled with the help of your doctor. Taking medication, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can help you take control of the condition effectively. 

Contact Advanced Medical Clinic in Wellington

For any heart health concerns, trust Advanced Medical Clinic to help you. Our expert practitioners and friendly staff can provide you with high-quality care that is tailored to your medical condition. 

Call us at (561) 434-1935 and schedule an appointment with one of our compassionate physicians today. You can also request an appointment online.

What Is a Dangerous High Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of blood that is placed on the walls of the arteries and other blood vessels as it courses through the body. It is common for blood pressure to increase and decrease – but when the pressure rises to an unhealthy level for a long period of time, this is the state of having high blood pressure, also called hypertension.

In the United States, there are approximately 75 million adults who have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). The condition is especially linked to heart disease and stroke, which is a great concern because they are the first and third leading cause of death, respectively.

There are also millions of Americans who have high blood pressure and do not realize it. This underscores the importance of having your blood pressure checked by a physician on a regular basis to ensure optimum health. Let’s talk about what blood pressure is and what can cause it to become higher than normal.

What Do the Blood Pressure Numbers Mean? 

A blood pressure test is quick and easy, and it determines your systolic and diastolic pressure. When read, the systolic number is first, and the diastolic pressure is second. The systolic number represents the pressure on your blood vessel walls when your heart beats; the diastolic pressure is the pressure between beats.

A normal blood pressure is less than 120 systolic and less than 80 diastolic (120/80, or “120 over 80”). High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher.

What Are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?

It is entirely possible to have dangerously high blood pressure and not even know it. However, most people with this condition tend to experience occasional bouts of shortness of breath, headaches, and even nosebleeds. By the time these symptoms occur, high blood pressure has become severe – see a doctor right away for an evaluation.

In addition to a medical history, a blood pressure check is a normal part of every health checkup. In between doctor’s visits, you may be tempted to check your own blood pressure at blood pressure machines that are sometimes located in grocery stores or pharmacies – however, these machines are not completely trustworthy. The blood pressure machine in the doctor’s office is much more accurate.

Who Is at Risk of High Blood Pressure?

There are several factors that affect blood pressure, including heredity, obesity, a lack of exercise, and smoking. Let’s take a look at some of these contributing factors:

  • Excess weight requires the blood to work harder to supply oxygen throughout the body. Plus, pressure on the artery walls is increased as the volume of blood being circulated is increased.
  • Exercise lowers a person’s heart rate, which lowers blood pressure. Conversely, a lack of exercise can cause a higher heart rate, causing the heart to work harder.
  • Smoking or chewing tobacco raises blood pressure. Additionally, arteries are susceptible to damage from the chemicals found in cigarettes and tobacco products.
  • Ordinary table salt affects blood pressure. Too much salt/sodium increases fluid that is retained in the body, which also causes blood pressure to rise.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption affects blood pressure and can cause damage to the heart. For men, more than two drinks a day could negatively affect blood pressure, and more than one drink each day will have an effect on a woman’s blood pressure.

There are factors that can contribute to a person’s susceptibility to high blood pressure which are beyond our control:

  • People of African heritage are more likely to develop high blood pressure, and are more susceptible to the condition at an earlier age, than those of other races.
  • Diabetes, kidney disease, and certain other chronic health conditions can negatively affect blood pressure.

Family Doctor in Wellington, FL

If you haven’t had your blood pressure checked recently, we’ll make it easy for you: Walk-ins and same-day appointments are welcome here at Advanced Medical Clinic. Our offices are located in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach for your convenience.

Call us today at (561) 434-1935 or fill out our online appointment request form now. We look forward to seeing you here!

From the Doctor’s Desk: The Complete Guide to Hypertension

Your blood pressure is a measure of how much pressure is exerted against your arteries and your organs by the blood being pumped by your heart. The higher the pressure, the harder your heart has to work. Hypertension is diagnosed when someone’s systolic blood pressure (top number) is consistently greater than 140, or their diastolic pressure (bottom number) is consistently greater than 90. This doesn’t mean that if you have a single reading that is high, you have hypertension. But if you do have such a reading, you should be monitored to make sure it comes back to normal.

There are some instances in which hypertension can be caused by another treatable problem, but about 95% of diagnosed people have essential hypertension, which often has no one identifiable cause. In these cases, there are a number of lifestyle choices that can be made to lower blood pressure, and in many instances, blood pressure medications will be needed. What is important to remember is that hypertension is a chronic illness. There are usually no symptoms, so there will be no warnings if it goes uncontrolled.  Once you are diagnosed, it is essential to follow your doctor’s advice, continue a healthy lifestyle, and take your medications as prescribed for the rest of your life.

There are many things that contribute to hypertension – some factors you cannot control, while others you can. For instance, it is more common in men than women, more common in African American men, as well as older adults. Sometimes, hypertension can also be genetic, or hereditary. Obviously, these are things that you can’t control. However, being overweight or obese, being inactive, smoking, eating a diet high in sodium, and stress all contribute to hypertension; and these are things that you can control.

So what can you do to ensure that your blood pressure is under control? First, make sure that you have regular checkups with your doctor. Since hypertension often goes undiagnosed, this is an important step in catching it early. Then, if you are found to have high blood pressure, take a look at the things that you can change in your life.

Your diet can have a great influence on your blood pressure. If your body mass index (BMI) is greater than 25, you should plan to lose weight. Try to eat more fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grain foods. Also limit the high fat foods, including meats. Fish is a great source of protein without all the fat that many cuts of beef contain. Stay away from fast food and limit alcohol to no more than 2 drinks per day. You should also limit the amount of caffeine you consume, restricting coffee to less than 2 cups per day. Also, make sure you lower your sodium intake. Anything canned, frozen, boxed or processed will tend to have more sodium. It is important to read labels, but fresh food is always a better choice. Make sure to also avoid foods high in sodium such as olives, soy sauce, Chinese food, bacon, and condiments. And put that saltshaker away!

In addition to diet, exercise will not only help you lose weight, but will help to keep your blood pressure regular. The recommendation is for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. If you are not active, start slow. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program, and walking is a great place to start. If you can’t tolerate 30 minutes per day, start with 10 or 15, but increase the time just a little each day until you meet your goal. And if you are a smoker, take a look at what that does, and stop smoking. Talk to your doctor about this, because there are ways to help you kick the habit.

If you still have a blood pressure over 140/90 after making changes to your lifestyle, it may be time to start on medication. Your doctor will determine which medication will be of most benefit. Sometimes you may need more than one prescription, but it is very important that you take all the medication as prescribed, every day. Remember, hypertension often has no symptoms; it is quietly doing damage to your heart and other organs. So don’t think that because you feel fine, that you don’t need your medication any more. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor. It is also a good idea to monitor your blood pressure at home from time to time, and keep a log to bring to your doctor visits.

Finally, even if you are vigilant about your lifestyle, and about taking your medications, there may be times when your blood pressure is high enough to require emergency treatment. If you have a blood pressure higher than 180/110, or if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, numbness, weakness, vision changes, problems speaking, or a severe headache, you should go to the emergency room or call 911.

If you would like to learn more about hypertension, you can visit the website of the American Heart Association. Advanced Medical has the caring and attentive medical staff you need to help monitor and treat conditions such as high blood pressure. Call today at (561) 434-1935 to schedule an appointment, or book an appointment online.

At Home Tips for Dealing with High Blood Pressure

Has your doctor told that your blood pressure is too high? Maybe you’re already taking blood pressure medication. You’re not alone. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most common chronic illnesses in the world. Uncontrolled blood pressure can cause a number of additional health problems, including heart disease, kidney disease, circulation problems, vision problems, and stroke. Unfortunately, high blood pressure often goes unnoticed because there usually are no symptoms, so it’s important that you know what you can do to keep your blood pressure normal. Here are some important tips on how you can deal with high blood pressure at home.

What is High Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is actually the amount of pressure inside of your arteries, which are the blood vessels that carry blood filled with oxygen to the rest of your body. The top number, or systolic pressure, is the pressure produced when the heart contracts. The bottom number, or diastolic pressure, is the pressure in your arteries in between contractions. Both numbers are important. The goal is to keep the systolic pressure below 140, and the diastolic pressure below 90. Pressures higher than this that go untreated cause damage to the heart, arteries and organs, such as the kidney, eyes, or brain.

What are the Risk Factors of High Blood Pressure?

Some causes of high blood pressure are genetic. Men have a higher incidence than women. African Americans are also at a higher risk. However, while family history increases your chances of having high blood pressure, lifestyle plays a big role. People that are overweight have poor dietary habits including a high sodium intake and those who don’t exercise regularly are more likely to develop high blood pressure.

How is High Blood Pressure Treated?

If you have hypertension, it is important that you work closely with your health care provider to keep your blood pressure controlled. You may be prescribed one or more medications to help lower your blood pressure. It is very important to take the medications as directed, near the same time every day. Get into a routine and stick to it. You should also buy a home monitor, check you blood pressure and even keep a log that you can bring to your next appointment. However, just as important as taking your medications, there are changes that you can make to your lifestyle that can help control your blood pressure:

Low Sodium Diets

Sodium is found in most foods, and it plays an important role in controlling the fluid balance in your body. It is also the main ingredient of table salt. If you eat too much sodium, you will start retaining fluid. The extra fluid increases the pressure within your arteries, resulting in an increase in blood pressure. There are a number of things you can do to lower the amount of sodium you take in every day.

·      Don’t use a saltshaker and don’t add salt when you’re cooking.

·      Try experimenting with other spices, but check the ingredients because they may have added salt.

·      Use lemon instead of salt.

·      Use fresh foods; canned, boxed, frozen and processed foods have more sodium.

·      Avoid foods high in sodium such as olives, soy sauce, Chinese food, bacon and bottled condiments.

·      Beware of chips and pretzels, cold cuts, pizza, poultry injected with sodium solutions, soups and sandwiches

·      Read food labels. Low sodium is 140 mg or less and no sodium is 5 mg or less per serving.

·      When dining out, ask for no salt, no spices and no sauces.

Healthy Diet/Healthy Weight

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement of body fat based on height and weight. The ideal BMI for both men and women is between 20 and 25. By following a healthy diet you will not only maintain your ideal BMI; you will also have a positive effect on your blood pressure and decrease your consumption of the high fat foods that are bad for your heart and cardiovascular system. Here are some basic dietary guidelines to keep you on the road to good health.

·      Reduce your alcohol intake to two or fewer drinks per day.

·      Eat more fruits and vegetables.

·      Eat more fish and more low fat animal proteins (but watch the sodium content).

·      Consume the recommended daily amount of fiber, which is 20 to 35 grams per day.

·      Reduce the amount of caffeine you consume. Limit coffee to less than 2 cups per day.

Exercise

Daily exercise will help to lower your blood pressure. It is recommended that you exercise 30 minutes per day, most days per week. Walking is an ideal form of exercise, but you must continue a regular routine. Stopping routine exercise will cause your blood pressure to rise again. If you are not exercising regularly now, you should follow the rule of “start low and go slow.” Start with 15, or even 10 minutes per day. Increase just a little every day, until you reach 30 minutes.

Avoid some Medications

Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can increase your blood pressure. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, are readily available at your local store, yet they can cause an increase in blood pressure. Other medications to avoid are nasal decongestants, weight loss products, and illicit drugs. Some women will experience an increase in blood pressure while taking oral contraceptives. It is advised to talk to your doctor before taking any of these medications if you have high blood pressure.

Signs that You Should Seek Emergency Care 

Even with careful adherence to your medication and lifestyle plan, there are times when you blood pressure may be high enough for you to go to the emergency room, or to call 911. If you experience any of the following symptoms with a blood pressure of 180/110 or higher, please seek immediate help:

·      Chest pain

·      Shortness of breath

·      Numbness or weakness

·      Change in vision

·      Difficulty speaking

·      Severe headache

Remember that high blood pressure often occurs with no symptoms. That is why it is important to have regular checkups with your healthcare provider. Once you know that you have hypertension, it is important to talk to your doctor about your plan, and follow the recommendations. High blood pressure is a chronic illness, and chances are that you will have to continue to take your medication and adjust your lifestyle for the rest of your life, so don’t ever stop taking your medications without consulting your doctor. But remember, there are a lot of things that you can do at home to keep your blood pressure under control.

To learn more about high blood pressure, its treatment, and what you can do to keep yours controlled, call Advanced Medical PA at (561) 434-1935 to request an appointment, or request one online.

Hypertension. What You Don’t Know Could Kill You!

Known as the “silent killer,” hypertension does not necessarily present with symptoms; it often goes undetected, and therefore, untreated. The only way to determine if you have high blood pressure is to have it tested. Testing is both simple and painless and takes only a few minutes in a doctor’s office.

Why is Hypertension Dangerous?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, high blood pressure increases your risk for a stroke or heart attack, the leading causes of death in the United States.  About one in every three adults will suffer at some time from high blood pressure.

That number breaks down to around 75 million people living with high blood pressure in the United States. Of those, approximately half have gotten their hypertension under control. Roughly 1,000 people die in the US each day with hypertension listed as a primary cause. Not only can high blood pressure lead to a heart attack, chronic heart failure or stroke, it can also damage other organs–including the kidneys, eyes, and brain.

When is Blood Pressure Considered High?

Blood pressure is considered high if the systolic number, which measures the heart at work, is 140 mmHg or higher and the diastolic, which measures the heart at rest, is 90 mmHg or higher. Although high blood pressure does not always present symptoms, it can cause symptoms such as dizziness, facial flushing or blood spots in the white of the eye from broken blood vessels. Some patients with extremely high blood pressure may also notice the sound of their heart beating in their ears. You should never wait for symptoms to arise to act on high blood pressure. Get your blood pressure checked regularly by a physician instead.

Both men and women are equally likely to develop high blood pressure at some point in their lives. For those under the age of 45, the risk is greater for men than woman. Over the age of 65, women are more likely to have high blood pressure than men. Race and ethnicity also play a role in who is at risk for hypertension. African Americans, for instance, are more likely to develop high blood pressure at an earlier age than their Caucasian counterparts.

How is High Blood Pressure Treated?

High blood pressure can usually be managed by a combination of medication, diet and exercise. Reducing your intake of salt, walking on a regular basis and eating a healthy diet have all been shown to reduce the risks of having high blood pressure. Additionally, your doctor may prescribe any number of different medications to lower your blood pressure. The kind of medication and dose will depend on the severity of your symptoms as well as how well you respond to, or tolerate, a given medication.

If you are concerned about how hypertension is affecting your heart and other organs, board-certified internal medicine specialist Dr. Ishan Gunawardene of Advanced Medical Clinic can help. He will take the time to talk to you, answer your questions and prescribe the necessary medications or lifestyle changes necessary to lower your high blood pressure. To make an appointment with us in Wellington or Royal Palm Beach, request an appointment online or call (561) 434-1935 today.