High Blood Pressure

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, means the force of blood against the blood vessel walls is higher than it should be. 

Over time, the excess force causes the walls of blood vessels to stiffen and narrow, making it more difficult for your heart to pump blood throughout your body. High blood pressure increases your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

High blood pressure is common and develops without causing symptoms. At Meta Medical Center, Dr. Parker checks your blood pressure every time you come in for care. 

These routine blood pressure readings help you get in front of any health issues, allowing Dr. Parker to start treatment for your high blood pressure before it causes any serious damage.

Am I at risk of high blood pressure?

Anyone can develop high blood pressure, although your risk of developing this chronic health condition increases as you get older. 

Other risk factors that may increase your risk of high blood pressure include:

• Having a family history of high blood pressure
• Using tobacco products
• Being overweight or obese
• Eating an unhealthy diet
• Not being physically active
• Consuming excess amounts of alcohol

You may also be at greater risk of developing high blood pressure if you have a personal or family history of diabetes or high cholesterol. 

How is high blood pressure diagnosed?

Dr. Parker uses your routine blood pressure readings to diagnose high blood pressure. However, one reading that’s higher than normal doesn’t mean you have high blood pressure.

In general, if you have 2-3 high blood pressure readings at separate visits, Dr. Parker may diagnose you with high blood pressure. Before a full diagnosis, he may recommend you check your blood pressure at home with a home blood pressure machine.

Some people experience higher than normal blood pressure readings when they visit the doctor. Dr. Parker has you check your readings at home to confirm or rule out his diagnosis.

How is high blood pressure treated?

Dr. Parker customizes your high blood pressure treatment plan based on the severity of your blood pressure numbers and your medical history. Initially, he may recommend lifestyle changes to improve your readings, such as:

• Diet modification
• Regular exercise
• Weight loss
• Smoking cessation
• Abstinence from alcohol

If your blood pressure remains high after making lifestyle changes, he may prescribe a blood pressure-lowering medication. 

There are many prescription medications for the treatment of high blood pressure. Dr. Parker helps you find the medication that provides the best results with the fewest side effects. 

For comprehensive high blood pressure care, call Meta Medical Center or schedule an appointment online today.