Hypertension

What is hypertension?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic condition that develops when the force of blood against your blood vessel walls is too strong for too long. Over time, hypertension damages and weakens the walls, causing them to become less elastic. This process slows blood flow and prevents the circulation of oxygen-rich blood to your heart and other organs.

Hypertension increases your risk of stroke, heart disease, and other chronic diseases when left untreated. High blood pressure rarely causes symptoms, and when it does, the condition is usually advanced. The only way to prevent and diagnose hypertension is to get high blood pressure screenings.

What are the signs of hypertension?

While hypertension doesn’t usually cause symptoms, signs can include:

• Irregular heart rhythms
• Headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Anxiety
• Chest pain
• Muscle spasms

If you experience signs of hypertension, Dr. Arne may recommend emergency care to address your symptoms immediately.

What causes hypertension?

Two types of hypertension can develop:

Primary

The most common type, primary hypertension, usually develops gradually and has no single cause. A high-sodium diet, lack of exercise, and smoking cigarettes are common risk factors for primary hypertension.

Secondary

Secondary hypertension is far less common. It’s typically caused by an underlying condition, such as kidney or heart disease.

How is hypertension diagnosed?

Dr. Arne performs comprehensive testing to diagnose hypertension. After examining your medical history and asking questions about your symptoms, he listens to your heart and checks your blood pressure. 

A blood pressure test measures your systolic pressure — the force in your arteries when your heart pumps — and your diastolic pressure, which measures pressure between each heartbeat. If either number is too high, Dr. Arne may issue a hypertension diagnosis.

What are the treatments for hypertension?

Lifestyle changes can effectively lower your blood pressure and reduce your need for medication. Common hypertension treatments include:

• Quitting smoking
• Losing weight
• Reducing your salt intake
• Minimizing stress
• Limiting your alcohol consumption
• Exercising regularly

Dr. Arne may recommend medication if lifestyle modifications don’t lower your blood pressure to a healthy level.

Call Gulfshore Personalized Care today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about hypertension.