Our Services / Hypertension

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is long-term high blood pressure. It occurs when your blood pushes too hard against the walls of your arteries for a long period. Many individuals experience high blood pressure when they’re nervous, anxious, or stressed. 

However, having hypertension means your blood pressure is consistently high, to the point that it’s in danger of damaging your arteries.

Damage to your arteries raises your risk of developing potentially serious complications, including stroke, kidney damage, and heart attack. Managing your hypertension and reducing your blood pressure can significantly lower your complication risk.

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

Hypertension is dangerous because it often has no noticeable symptoms. Some people with hypertension do experience symptoms, such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Vision problems

In rare cases, individuals with hypertension can experience a hypertensive crisis that requires emergency care. The attack can cause severe headaches, chest pain, nausea, and even seizures.

What causes hypertension?

Several underlying factors can raise your risk of developing hypertension, including:

• Weight challenges
• Family history
• Inactivity
• Extreme stress
• Poor diet

Your provider at Fala Medical Clinic always runs the appropriate tests to determine your risk of developing hypertension. 

Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise and reducing stress in your life are excellent ways to prevent hypertension. Limiting alcohol consumption and tobacco use are also great preventive measures against the condition.

What are the treatments for hypertension?

Treating hypertension typically requires a commitment to lasting lifestyle changes, such as a healthier diet and frequent exercise. Diet and exercise alone can significantly lower your chances of complications. However, your provider may also recommend weight loss, low-sodium foods, and quitting tobacco use.

Following these lifestyle practices not only reduces your hypertension risk, but also helps prevent other chronic conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. A healthy lifestyle can improve your overall quality of life by maintaining your health.

Medication can also help treat hypertension when accompanied by healthy lifestyle changes. Your provider may also suggest monitoring your blood pressure to help you manage the condition at home.

To learn more about treating hypertension, call Fala Medical Clinic or schedule online today.