If you are one of the millions of American adults who have hypertension (high blood pressure), it is important to understand how serious it is to get it under control. With the help of your primary care physician, your numbers can normalize, and you can avoid potentially dangerous symptoms and long-term health effects.
What’s Normal Blood Pressure?
For the average adult, normal blood pressure is 120/80. If one or both of these numbers begin to creep upward, your primary care physician will monitor you closely for stage one or stage two hypertension. Most people with blood pressure running 140/90 or higher need medication, monitoring at home and in their physician’s office, as well as modification of lifestyle elements pertinent to cardiovascular health.
Why Is Treating Hypertension Important?
Health care providers often call high blood pressure “the silent killer” because of the increased load it places on blood vessels, the heart, kidneys, and other body organs – which may go undetected for a long time. Elevated blood pressure can lead to:
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Congestive heart failure
- Dementia
- Kidney disease
- Vision problems
When hypertension progresses, some people experience dizziness, nosebleeds, headaches, and more. Adults should see their primary care physician for annual check-ups, including an assessment of their blood pressure. If you are found to have high blood pressure, more frequent check-ups may be necessary.
What Steps Can I Take to Reduce Hypertension Symptoms?
People who have high blood pressure symptoms in the greater Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch, FL, areas can take advantage of the outstanding primary care services available at Intercoastal Medical Group. Our health care providers can help you to recognize when you are in a hypertensive crisis and can help you manage your blood pressure numbers day to day.
For maintenance of healthy blood pressure, be sure to:
- Lose weight as necessary or maintain your current weight as close to ideal as possible
- Exercise daily (pick an activity you enjoy and can do consistently)
- Limit your alcohol and caffeine intake
- Reduce your stress and anxiety levels
- Increase your intake of plant-based foods and avoid high-sugar, high-fat, and high-salt menu choices
- Stop smoking (ask your provider at Intercoastal Medical Group for a monitored smoking cessation program)
- Take all medications as prescribed, and keep your doctor apprised of changes in your blood pressure numbers, stress levels, or concerning symptoms
Your primary care physician will assist you in managing your hypertension, and all aspects of your cardiovascular and overall health.
Your primary care physician may refer you to a cardiologist if your elevated blood pressure continues to trend up or if a red flag during an exam warrants a closer look at your heart. Cardiologists are trained practitioners that focus on the anatomy, functions, and disorders of the heart. High blood pressure is a major factor for heart disease and stroke, therefore it is important to be proactive and take the recommended steps by your primary care physician.
High Blood Pressure Symptom Treatment in Bradenton And Sarasota, FL
At Intercoastal Medical Group, we have over 100 board-certified physicians, including doctors who specialize in areas such as internal medicine, family medicine, and cardiology. We can help you with your blood pressure. Just call the location nearest you for a consultation, or use our online appointment request form.
