Hypertension

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Any blood pressure reading above 120/80 mm Hg is considered elevated or high blood pressure. Pre-hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure readings fall between 120/80 mm Hg and 140/90 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed by measurements over 140/90 mm Hg.

In many cases, hypertension has no symptoms and goes unnoticed. However, high blood pressure can be dangerous and increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. Annual physical exams can help you lower your risk and ensure proper management of the condition.

What causes hypertension?

Hypertension is divided into two categories: primary and secondary hypertension. These categories determine the cause of your high blood pressure.

Primary hypertension

Primary hypertension accounts for about 85% of cases and has many different causative factors. The most common ones include:

• Family history of high blood pressure
• Dietary sodium
• Obesity
• Stress

Sodium plays a larger role in hypertension in those over the age of 65, though genetic predisposition can influence how a person responds to other factors when you’re under the age of 65.

Secondary hypertension

Secondary hypertension occurs as a result of another health condition. The most common conditions that cause secondary hypertension include:

• Primary aldosteronism
• Renal parenchymal disease
• Renovascular disease
• Sleep apnea

The team determines the type of hypertension you have following a thorough medical history and physical exam.

How is hypertension diagnosed?

Hypertension is primarily diagnosed by a traditional blood pressure screening. The team also uses information from your medical history and physical exam to determine the cause of your high blood pressure.

Based on the severity and cause of your hypertension, the team recommends lifestyle management strategies and medical approaches to reduce your blood pressure.

How is hypertension treated?

For those with pre-hypertension, the team may begin with lifestyle counseling to help you reduce stress, improve your diet, lose weight, or cut back on sodium in your food. If these methods aren’t enough, the team prescribes medications to lower your blood pressure.

A wide variety of medications are available to lower your blood pressure and improve certain factors that affect blood pressure, including heart rate, cholesterol levels, and fluid retention. The team works with you to determine which type of medication is best for you.

To get screened for high blood pressure, call or schedule a visit online at Coastal Heart Medical Group.