How much do you know about blood pressure? Blood pressure is the measurement of the force with which your blood moves through your arteries, and it’s recorded in millimeters of mercury. There are two numbers noted in a blood pressure reading, with the top number measuring systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart beats), and the bottom measuring diastolic pressure (when the heart is at rest). A reading of 118 /73 means that your systolic pressure is 118 mmHg, and your diastolic pressure is 73mmHg. This example is a healthy measurement, but anything over 120/80 indicates one of the stages of hypertension. Since hypertension affects almost one in three adults in the U.S., and high blood pressure is linked to heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions, it’s important to pay attention to blood pressure, through regular check-ups.

Understanding Types of Hypertension: Risks of Ignoring High Blood Pressure Symptoms

The two types of hypertension are primary and secondary. Primary hypertension, the most common type, has no identifiable cause and develops gradually. Secondary hypertension is linked to an underlying condition like a hormonal disorder or kidney disease. Caught early, high blood pressure is manageable. However, the risks of ignoring high blood pressure symptoms can be serious, as hypertension can lead to heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and other complications like arrhythmias and coronary artery disease.

How Often Should Blood Pressure be Checked? Is Monitoring Blood Pressure at Home Necessary?

If you are not at increased risk of hypertension, simply having your blood pressure checked during your regular checkups is enough. However, if you are over 40 and have risk factors like a family history of hypertension, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle, it’s wise to be checked more often. If your doctor is concerned about your blood pressure, you might be asked to monitor your blood pressure at home. If your doctor doesn’t suggest it, ask whether it’s something you should be doing.

The Importance of Recognizing Hypertension Early: Benefits of Early Detection

As with most health conditions, hypertension is easiest to control if it’s caught in the early stages. Because hypertension doesn’t always cause symptoms, it can go unnoticed, which is why it is vital to have regular blood pressure screenings. Being informed about your blood pressure gives you and your doctor the opportunity to be proactive in monitoring and improving your heart health.

Lifestyle and Medical Management to Prevent Elevated Blood Pressure Levels

Fortunately, there are things you can do on your own to reduce your risk of hypertension. Eating a diet rich in produce, whole grain, and lean protein can help, as can limiting your sodium intake. Regular physical activity keeps your heart strong and healthy, and can help keep your blood pressure low. Reducing stress through practices like meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can be beneficial in preventing high blood pressure, and your doctor may also prescribe medication. Different types of medication can help control blood pressure, including diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta blockers. Sometimes, a patient will need to try different medications to find the right one, and sometimes the doctor will prescribe medications to be used together. It’s important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully, so that you can work as a team to keep your heart healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions                   

• What are the Risk Factors of High Blood Pressure?
  A family history of hypertension puts you at higher risk of developing high blood pressure, and the risk increases for all of us as we age. However, lifestyle also plays a role. Being sedentary, carrying excess weight, drinking heavily, using tobacco, and eating a diet high in salt and fat are all factors that put a person at risk for high blood pressure. 
• Are There Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?
  Unfortunately, many people have high blood pressure and don’t even know it. This is because hypertension, which has been nicknamed “the silent killer”, often presents with no symptoms. However, if you have headaches, nosebleeds, shortness of breath, or simply don’t feel right, have your blood pressure checked, just in case.
• When Should You See a Cardiologist?
  If you’re following your doctor’s instructions, taking your medication, and practicing healthy lifestyle habits, yet your blood pressure remains high, schedule an appointment with a cardiologist. You should also make that appointment if you have hypertension and are experiencing heart related symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.

Looking for a Cardiologist in Boca Raton? Trust Twin Lakes Heart & Vein Center with Your Heart

Whether you need routine blood pressure checks or are looking for a medical practice skilled in treating vascular conditions, the talented team of experts at Twin Lakes Heart & Vein Center is here for you. Since 1993, we have been providing cardiovascular care for the community in Boca Raton, offering unparalleled care through a preventative, patient-centered approach. We are committed to building life-long relationships with our patients, helping you achieve a heart-healthy lifestyle. By adopting leading-edge technologies and taking a comprehensive heart health approach to heart disease, we are able to provide enhanced outcomes for a wide range of cardiovascular conditions. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us through our website.