High blood pressure is a common concern that affects some 103 million people in the United States. Medically known as hypertension, the condition can put patients at increased risk of suffering serious problems. This is why it’s crucial to seek the advice of a primary care physician who can provide you with the appropriate medication and dietary suggestions. Here’s what you should know about it.

Questions About High Blood Pressure, Answered

What exactly is high blood pressure?

It occurs when the blood that flows through the arteries exerts too much force against the walls. The actual pressure of the blood is determined by the amount of blood pumped by the heart and how much resistance is present in the arteries. The narrower the arteries, the more difficult it is to pump the blood. This causes pressure numbers to rise.

What causes high blood pressure?

High blood pressure can be attributed to a number of reasons. When there is no explicable cause, it’s known as primary hypertension. Patients with this form of the condition develop it over time. Those who suffer from secondary hypertension develop symptoms in response to another factor, like kidney or thyroid problems, medications, or sleep apnea.  

What are the side effects?

People don’t always experience symptoms, which is why high blood pressure can go unnoticed for years. Those who do experience symptoms might develop painful headaches and experience chest pain or trouble breathing. It’s important to seek a primary care physician’s guidance promptly if you experience any of these effects.

Why is it considered dangerous?

Many complications can stem from uncontrolled hypertension. Continuously elevated blood pressure contributes to thickened arteries, which in turn can lead to a stroke, an aneurysm, or a heart attack. Because the heart needs to work extra hard to compete with the pressure of thicker artery walls, it may weaken with time and lead to heart failure. Hypertension can also affect kidney function.

How is it treated and managed?

Primary care physicians typically prescribe medication to treat high blood pressure. They may also advise you to add more physical activity to your routine, incorporate more healthy foods into your diet, and decrease the amount of sodium that you consume. All of these can net cumulative positive results that bring your numbers down and allow you to live a healthy and fulfilled life.
 

If you seek a reliable primary care physician in the Bronx to treat your hypertension, turn to HDR Healthcare Network. The medical center offers care for patients of all ages. Whether you seek pediatric or senior care, you can trust in these professionals to provide experienced, compassionate help when you need it the most. Visit the website to find out more about their family medicine services or call (929) 256-5005 to schedule an appointment.