High Blood Pressure is a very common condition that is typically detected on a routine physical exam. Usually there are no symptoms, and if left untreated, can lead to heart attack or stroke.
The definition of hypertension states that:
- <120/80 mmHg is normal Blood Pressure
- 120-139/ 80-89 mmHg is PreHypertension
- >140/90 mmHg is Hypertension
Blood Pressure is measured by your doctor or nurse using a Blood Pressure cuff and stethoscope that detects the force of blood as the heart pumps blood against the walls of your arteries.
The more elevated the systolic (top ) number is, the greater the cardiovascular risk. You are at higher risk of hypertension if you:
- Are a smoker
- Have diabetes
- Have a family history of high blood pressure
- Are of African American descent
- Are obese
- Are often stressed or anxious
- Are a female drinking >1 drink/day or a male drinking >2 drinks/day
- Overuse salt in your diet
There are many treatments for hypertension, call us for more information or to setup a consultation for your specific blood pressure needs.