What is Hypertension?
Hypertension, commonly called high blood pressure, affects billions of individuals throughout the world and the treatment for the condition is a priority at Elevate Health Group. To better understand hypertension, it is beneficial to know that blood pressure itself if the force is exerted on blood vessels as blood moves through them. Hypertension is defined as having a higher reading than normal, at least 140 over 90 mmHg. This will not be an exact definition because blood pressure norms can change from person to person and high levels can fall under a few different ranges. If the patient’s blood pressure is higher than 159 over 99 it is viewed at a more severe condition surrounding blood pressure.
What Symptoms Are Seen with High Blood Pressure or Hypertension?
Hypertension can present will little to no symptoms for many people, however the longer it goes untreated the worse it can get and cause internal symptoms. Complications or symptoms which can go along with very high blood pressure include:
- A weakened heart
- Blood vessels in the eyes bleed or rupture
- Blood vessel narrowing
- An enlarged heart
- Aneurysms, which are atypical bulges in the walls of arteries
What Treatments Are Used for Hypertension?
Changes to a person’s lifestyle and habits can greatly impact their high blood pressure. Many doctors recommend that their patients cut down on the consumption of salts and alcohol in addition to increasing the numbers of fruits, vegetables, and foods that are low in fats. Losing weight can also help to lower blood pressure. Regular physical activity can help to achieve weight loss goals and reduce blood pressure levels. Patients should also discontinue smoking and check to see if any medications they are taking could be contributing to their hypertension. If these changes do not work to lower blood pressure, medicines can be prescribed. The medication chosen will depend on the patient’s exact circumstances and any other conditions present.