Hypertension Specialist

When is hypertension diagnosed?

Hypertension describes a condition where your blood pushes too forcefully against your artery walls. The heavy pressure stresses your cardiovascular system and can lead to serious health problems.

High blood pressure develops over many years. If it goes uncontrolled, it can lead to a heart attack or stroke, as well as other chronic health problems.

How is hypertension detected?

Hypertension only has symptoms in its final, very serious stages. It quietly does internal damage to your body, however. The team at Creekside Family Practice regularly checks your blood pressure at checkups and other appointments to monitor your readings. 

You’re at risk of developing high blood pressure if you have consistent readings of 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when you present with 130/80 for three consecutive readings.

What puts me at risk of developing hypertension?

You’re at a greater risk of developing hypertension if it runs in your family or if you’re of advancing age. Controllable factors that increase your risk of the condition include:

• Too much stress
• Being overweight or obese
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Too much sodium and too little potassium in your diet

If you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, you’re also at greater risk of developing high blood pressure.

What happens if high blood pressure is not properly managed?

Unmanaged hypertension can lead to a number of serious health problems, including: 

• Heart attack or stroke
• Heart failure
• Aneurysm
• Kidney problems
• Dementia
• Metabolic syndrome

Dr. Qureshi offers medication and lifestyle recommendations to help you keep your blood pressure in a normal range.

How is hypertension managed?

Dr. Qureshi advises you on the optimal lifestyle changes to make to improve your blood pressure readings. Among these changes is choosing a heart-healthy diet that’s lower in sodium than the average diet. 

Another factor is getting exercise regularly. If you’re overweight, losing a few pounds also helps lower your numbers.

You can also benefit from specific medications that help lower your blood pressure numbers. Medication is a complement to lifestyle changes, which are still necessary to help you reduce high blood pressure.

For more information about hypertension and regular appointments that help you stay on top of your blood pressure numbers, call the office of Creekside Family Practice or schedule online.