Hypertension Specialist

What is hypertension?

Hypertension involves chronic high blood pressure. You have hypertension if the force and pressure of your blood are consistently too high against your artery walls. Hypertension typically signals that your arteries have narrowed, and your heart is pumping excess blood.

If hypertension isn’t properly treated, over time, it can lead to certain complications, such as heart disease.

Your provider checks your blood pressure with a special machine that measures the amount of blood your heart is pumping and how resistant your arteries are to the blood flow.

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

Hypertension is often called the silent killer because it often doesn’t come along with any symptoms. When they do occur some of the symptoms of hypertension can include:

• Headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath

If you suspect hypertension your Macomb Medical Clinic health provider should evaluate you. Many people don’t even know they have hypertension.

What causes hypertension?

Various environmental and genetic factors can play a role in the development of hypertension.

Primary hypertension

Primary hypertension usually occurs over many years and doesn’t have a clear cause. Many people with primary hypertension must continue lifelong lifestyle changes and hypertensive medications to regulate blood pressure.

Secondary hypertension

Secondary hypertension can occur suddenly, typically due to an underlying condition. You might have an increased risk of developing hypertension if you:

• Have a thyroid disorder
• Consume alcohol excessively
• Have kidney complications
• Have obstructive sleep apnea
• Have adrenal gland tumors
• Use certain illegal drugs, such as amphetamines

Some medications can also heighten the risk of developing hypertension, such as birth control pills, cold remedies, and prescription drugs.

The complications of hypertension include metabolic syndrome, memory loss, and heart failure.

What are the treatments for hypertension?

Your provider checks your blood pressure, evaluates your medical history, and performs a physical exam. The Macomb Medical Clinic team might suggest additional testing when necessary and often discusses beneficial healthy lifestyle changes, such as stress management, regular exercise and fitness, and a nutrient-dense diet.

Your provider might recommend a number of effective methods to lower your blood pressure, such as limiting your alcohol intake, quitting smoking, keeping your weight in a healthy range, and managing your stress.

Proven-successful and safe medications are also available to assist you in regulating your blood pressure. When you visit Macomb Medical Clinic, you also receive valuable information on the best ways to improve your heart health.

Hypertension can present serious risks and complications. Evaluate the health of your heart and circulatory system by calling Macomb Medical Clinic or scheduling online today.