Hypertension
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Elevated blood pressure is a common but potentially harmful condition. Because of this, the staff at Danvers Family Doctors places hypertension as a major focus of each appointment, including it as a routine check at each appointment. For patients with abnormal readings, providers are here to support you in a path towards ideal levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hypertension?
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is diagnosed when an individual increasingly has a blood pressure of greater than 140/90 mmHg. Prehypertension is defined as blood pressure readings between 121 and 139/81 and 89 mmHg. This is compared with a normal blood pressure of 120/80mmHg.
What Do the Numbers on Your Blood pressure mean?
The top number on a blood pressure reading is the systolic blood pressure and measures the force against the blood vessel walls when the heart is beating. The bottom number represents the diastolic blood pressure, and is the measure of the force against the blood vessel walls when the heart is at rest.
What Are the Effects of Hypertension?
When left untreated, hypertension can be deadly. It brings a risk of heart diseases including heart failure, heart attack, kidney damage, stroke, and vision loss.
What Are the Signs of High Blood Pressure?
What makes hypertension particularly frightening is its lack of of symptoms in many instances. Therefore, it is important to attend regular wellness exams and is the reason behind our strict policy of blood pressure checks at each appointment.
Who is Prone to Hypertension?
Hypertension risks are multifactorial and include a natural increase with age and potential links to genetics. Other risk factors, however, can be controlled including inactivity, poor diet, regular use of tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, and excess weight.
What is the Best Treatment for Hypertension?
Unfortunately, management of high blood pressure often involves changes to lifestyle. This includes altering your diet, exercising, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol intake. Additionally a range of medications including beta blockers can be taken to lower blood pressure levels.