Hypertension Specialist

What is hypertension?

Hypertension (or high blood pressure) is a condition where blood exerts too much force against your artery walls. This long-term force of blood ultimately damages the artery walls, leading to severe complications like stroke or heart disease. 

One of the most common reasons that people don’t realize they have hypertension is their lack of symptoms. You can have hypertension for years without knowing it.

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

For those who experience hypertension symptoms, they may include:

• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Chest pain
• Nosebleeds
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heart rate
• Blurred vision

Most individuals only experience hypertension symptoms once the condition advances. If you experience any severe symptoms of high blood pressure, please reach out to the Rose Medical Clinic team for a comprehensive evaluation.

What causes hypertension?

There are two types of hypertension:

Primary hypertension

Primary hypertension may have no known cause. Many people have primary hypertension that develops gradually, without symptoms. However, you may be at risk for primary hypertension if you have the following:

• A high-sodium diet
• Consume too much caffeine
• Genetic predisposition
• Carry excess weight
• Consume too much alcohol

Most individuals are over the age of 65 when they develop hypertension, but younger adults can develop it as well.

Secondary hypertension

Secondary hypertension is less common. Some of the most prevalent causes of secondary hypertension include thyroid disorders, certain medications, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and adrenal gland tumors.

How is hypertension diagnosed?

Diagnosing hypertension takes just a few minutes. At Rose Medical Clinic, the team measures your blood pressure by comparing the systolic number (the force against your artery walls with each beat) and the diastolic number (the force against your artery walls between beats).

Normal blood pressure readings typically measures under 180 systolic and 80 diastolic. If the systolic number measures 130-139 and the diastolic number measures 80-89, you may have hypertension.

What are the treatments for hypertension?

The Rose Medical Clinic team takes a holistic approach to hypertension, where treatment may include:

• Weight loss
• Following a low-sodium diet
• Consuming less red meat
• Changing medications
• Increasing your exercise levels
• Quitting smoking

The team may also pair your lifestyle modifications with medication if you need extra support to lower your blood pressure. 

To schedule an appointment for hypertension help, call Rose Medical Clinic in Chillicothe, Ohio, or request an appointment online today.