High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Hypertension is a very commonly diagnosed cardiovascular condition and is generally known as high blood pressure. This condition affects many people, and you may have family and friends who have this diagnosis.
A doctor or nurse will measure your blood pressure at your doctor’s visit. There are two numbers in a blood pressure reading. The diastolic (lower) number measures the pressure in your heart at rest. This reading should be less than 80. The systolic (upper) number measures the pressure at which your heart beats. A normal reading is under 120.
Find a Doctor to measure your blood pressure and, if necessary, discuss treatment options for hypertension.
Types of hypertension
You can develop one of two types of hypertension. Our cardiovascular doctors can determine if you have primary or secondary hypertension. Primary hypertension is the most common and has no known cause. Secondary hypertension causes are much like their name since the condition is secondary to another medical condition.
Risk factors that make you more likely to develop high blood pressure include:
- African American heritage
- Older than 60
- Gender — men develop high blood pressure in their middle ages while women are more likely to develop it at an older age
- Overweight
- Family history
High blood pressure treatment for a healthy life
Your doctor can explain that there are really no symptoms for hypertension. Years can go by without it being diagnosed, which can lead to heart disease, heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, and organ damage. That’s why it is so important to have regular wellness checkups to measure blood pressure and monitor your overall health.
Treating these secondary medical conditions can help bring your blood pressure down to a normal reading. Primary hypertension is usually treated with lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, and quitting smoking. Prescription medications may also be recommended by your doctor to help lower your high blood pressure.
Dignity Health – Mercy Medical Center's cardiac care doctors in Merced, CA provide effective treatment to help lower your blood pressure.
At risk for heart disease?
Heart disease comes in many forms and can affect people of any age, gender, or ethnicity. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The more you can learn about your heart health, the better. Knowledge is truly powerful medicine that helps you understand your risks and take action to lessen your potential for problems. It can lead to early detection, and most importantly, to early treatment and better outcomes.
Take this quick assessment to:
- Understand symptoms, causes, and types of heart disease
- Determine your risk factors for developing heart disease
- Learn which lifestyle factors can increase or decrease your risk