Hypertension

Is hypertension something to worry about?

Yes. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when the force of the blood pumping through your arteries remains consistently high for an extended time. Without treatment, this excess pressure damages the walls of your arteries and makes it harder for your heart to pump blood. While there’s no cure for hypertension, treatment can prevent it from worsening and protect your health.

Does hypertension present symptoms?

Hypertension rarely presents symptoms, which is why it’s often called “the silent killer.” If it's been more than three years since your last blood pressure reading, schedule a home health care appointment with Kelli. Prompt treatment can prevent further damage and help your heart function optimally.

Are there different types of hypertension?

Kelli treats both types of hypertension, including:

Primary hypertension

This type of high blood pressure develops slowly and is caused by lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking. 

Secondary hypertension

This type of high blood pressure develops rapidly and is usually caused by an underlying medical condition, like kidney disease, thyroid problems, and obstructive sleep apnea.

How is hypertension diagnosed?

Kelli diagnoses hypertension during a home house call. Upon arrival, she completes a physical exam and takes your blood pressure. 

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm/Hg) and features two numbers. A reading of less than 120/80 mm/Hg is considered normal, healthy blood pressure, while a reading of 130/80 mm/Hg or higher is considered high blood pressure or hypertension. Kelli takes your blood pressure several times during the visit since blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day.

How is hypertension treated?

Kelli treats hypertension with a conservative and patient-centric approach. If your blood pressure is only slightly elevated, she might suggest healthy lifestyle changes, like exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake, and eating a balanced, nutritious diet. Often, these steps can bring blood pressure back within the healthy range.

If your high blood pressure continues or worsens, you might need prescription medication. Kelli may prescribe:

• Water pills (diuretics)
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
• Calcium channel blockers
• Alpha-blockers
• Beta-blockers

Kelli monitors your blood pressure at regular home checkups and adjusts your care plan as needed to ensure lasting results.

Call IMPACT Practitioner Services, LLC, today to schedule a hypertension appointment or book your house call online.