High Blood Pressure Specialist

High Blood Pressure Q & A

What Does High Blood Pressure Mean?

High blood pressure happens when the blood flow inside the arteries is too highly pressurized. High blood pressure can refer to either primary high blood pressure or secondary high blood pressure. With primary high blood pressure, the high blood pressure is its own condition and it may result from a combination of things instead of having a single cause. With secondary high blood pressure, the high blood pressure occurs due to other medical conditions. For example, pregnant women may develop high blood pressure for the first time in their lives, but after having the baby the high blood pressure will often return to normal.

What Are the Indicators of High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure may not cause any clear symptoms at all in many cases. In fact, high blood pressure can get to the point of being very serious before any problems are obvious. In most cases, patients discover that they have high blood pressure while at the doctor's office having a regular check-up, or seeing the doctor for issues like eye, kidney, or heart problems.

Can High Blood Pressure Be Fatal?

Yes, high blood pressure can result in death if it is not diagnosed and treated properly. When people who suffer from high blood pressure don’t get treatment, there is an increased risk of heart attacks, heart failure, stroke, and other health problems that could end their life.

What is the Best Way to Get High Blood Pressure Under Control?

Getting high blood pressure under control usually starts with some lifestyle changes. People who are overweight will need to commit to a diet and exercise plan that will help them get to a healthy weight. A diet that includes limited amounts of sodium and saturated fat is often a good choice for people with high blood pressure. Smokers should quit smoking as soon as possible if they have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, and alcohol consumption should be eliminated or dramatically reduced. Some patients will also need prescription medicine to get their high blood pressure under control.