High Blood Pressure is Prevalent and Often Goes Undiagnosed
Some 75 million adults in this country suffer from high blood pressure. What’s more, an estimated 13 million don’t know that they have the condition. Even though elusive symptoms can hinder the condition’s discovery, successful diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure, also referred to as hypertension, are not impossible. At Healthy Life Family Medicine in Goodyear, Arizona, our team of experienced medical professionals recognizes that early diagnosis creates better patient outcomes. Learn the warning signs of hypertension and how to prevent complications.
Understanding blood pressure
As your heart beats, it pumps blood throughout your circulatory system. The rate at which it pumps the blood depends on the heart’s beats and naturally fluctuates throughout the day. High blood pressure occurs when your heart pumps blood at an accelerated power more often than what is considered healthy.
The excessive force of blood circulation associated with high blood pressure is harmful to your heart, organs, and veins and arteries over time. The cause of high blood pressure is largely unknown. However, it does run in families. Lifestyle choices are also a major factor.
Know the symptoms
Symptoms of high blood pressure are often unrecognized. However, they can be identified if you know what to look for. Symptoms of high blood pressure may include:
- A pounding pulsation in your chest or ears
- Severe headaches
- Distressed breathing
- Vision issues
- Exhaustion
- Irregular heartbeat
- Confusion or brain fog
- Blood in your urine
Complications caused by high blood pressure
High blood pressure lead to a multitude of severe health issues, including organ failure, poor eyesight, stroke, and heart attack. Frequently, it’s only when these complications occur that individuals become aware they have hypertension. For some, the diagnosis of high blood pressure only comes after they have lost their lives. Though it is treatable, high blood pressure is responsible for thousands of deaths per day.
Treatment options
If you receive a diagnosis of high blood pressure, don’t despair. We are experts in managing chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure. With proper treatment, the condition is manageable. In some instances, the situation is reversible. Treatment for high blood pressure can include:
- Weight loss
- Exercise
- Reduction of salt intake
- Medication
- Quit smoking
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Eat healthy foods
- Curb your caffeine habit
- Limit stress in your life
While high blood pressure is exceedingly common and can lead to an array of health issues, it is both preventable and treatable. If you are experiencing symptoms of high blood pressure, don’t put off getting help. It is essential that you receive an accurate diagnosis to start immediate treatment. Early intervention is the key to saving your life. Call the experts at Healthy Life Family Medicine at (623) 232-9194 to discuss your options.