When Is Hypertension Diagnosed?

Hypertension, often referred to as the “silent killer,” typically presents no symptoms until it reaches advanced stages. In its early phases, it can silently damage vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and eyes. Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial, and the team at Tomball Health & Wellness diligently checks your blood pressure during checkups to ensure early detection and management.

According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. Elevated blood pressure is defined as systolic readings between 120–129 mm Hg and diastolic readings less than 80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure readings consistently reach 130/80 mm Hg or higher .

It’s important to note that a single high reading doesn’t confirm hypertension. Diagnosis typically requires multiple readings taken on different occasions to accurately assess your blood pressure levels.

How Is Hypertension Detected?

You’re at a greater risk of developing hypertension if it runs in your family or if you’re of advancing age. Controllable factors that increase your risk of the condition include:

• Too much stress

• Being overweight or obese

• A sedentary lifestyle

• Too much sodium and too little potassium in your diet

If you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, you’re also at greater risk of developing high blood pressure .

What Puts Me at Risk of Developing Hypertension?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing hypertension:

• Obesity: Excess body weight puts added strain on the heart and blood vessels.

• Dietary choices: High sodium intake and low potassium levels can elevate blood pressure.

• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes to weight gain and increased blood pressure.

• Previous joint injuries: May lead to conditions that affect blood pressure regulation.

• Aging: Blood vessels naturally thicken and stiffen over time, increasing the risk of high blood pressure.

• Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can affect blood pressure regulation.NHLBI, NIH

It’s important to discuss your specific risk factors with your healthcare provider during your consultation.

What Happens If High Blood Pressure Is Not Properly Managed?

Unmanaged hypertension can lead to a number of serious health problems, including:

• Heart attack or stroke

• Heart failure

• Aneurysm

• Kidney problems

• Dementia

• Metabolic syndrome

These complications underscore the importance of regular monitoring and management of blood pressure.

How Is Hypertension Managed?

Dr. Raza advises you on the optimal lifestyle changes to make to improve your blood pressure readings. Among these changes are:

• Choosing a heart-healthy diet that’s lower in sodium than the average diet.

• Getting regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and strengthen the heart.

• Losing weight if you’re overweight, as this helps lower blood pressure.

You can also benefit from specific medications that help lower your blood pressure numbers. Medication is a complement to lifestyle changes, which are still necessary to help you reduce high blood pressure.

For more information about hypertension and regular appointments that help you stay on top of your blood pressure numbers, call the office of Tomball Health and Wellness or schedule online.