High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to heart attacks or strokes, so it’s critically important to stay on top of your blood pressure. At AssociatesMD in Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Weston, Margate, and Dania Beach, Florida, the team is ready to help you create a treatment plan that helps you achieve your blood pressure goals. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about treatments for high blood pressure.

What is high blood pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of blood pumping through your blood vessels from your heart. High blood pressure is when the force of blood pushing through your blood vessels is too high, which means your heart has to work extra hard. There aren’t always obvious symptoms of high blood pressure, which is why it’s often called a silent killer. 

If high blood pressure is left untreated it can lead to dangerous conditions such as stroke or heart attack. It’s important to monitor your blood pressure and keep track if it’s getting higher. 

How do I avoid high blood pressure?

There are many ways to lower or maintain low blood pressure. It’s important to maintain a healthy, low-sodium diet full of fruits and vegetables. It’s also important to exercise, manage stress, limit alcohol consumption, quit smoking, and maintain a healthy weight. All of these factors contribute to a healthy body with low blood pressure. 

If diet and exercise aren’t enough, medication can help maintain or bring your blood pressure down to a healthy level. Your provider at AssociatesMD can help you find the right solutions that work for you.

How is high blood pressure diagnosed?

You can get your blood pressure checked at the doctor's office, but you should monitor it regularly on your own as well. Below are the ranges your blood pressure can fall into, from healthy to dangerous:

Normal blood pressure

Your blood pressure is less than 120/80.

Elevated blood pressure

Your blood pressure reads between 120-129/less than 80.

High blood pressure 

Your blood pressure reads between 130-139/80-89. This is also called hypertension stage 1.High blood pressure

Your blood pressure reads 140 or higher/90 or higher. This is also called hypertension stage 2.

Hypertensive crisis

Your blood pressure reads higher than 180/higher than 120. This is the time to seek immediate treatment.  

How is high blood pressure treated?

Treatment for high blood pressure typically involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and medications. Initially, your doctor might recommend lifestyle changes, such as adopting a diet consisting of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains while limiting sodium intake. 

Physical activity, like walking or swimming, can also help lower blood pressure. Additionally, reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking are essential steps in managing high blood pressure. Doctors may also suggest stress-reduction techniques to help lower stress levels, which can contribute to elevated blood pressure.

If lifestyle changes aren't sufficient on their own, your doctor may prescribe medications. These medications work in various ways, such as relaxing blood vessels, reducing blood volume, or decreasing the heart's workload.

Call AssociatesMD or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about high blood pressure.