Hypertension Specialist

What is high blood pressure?

Blood pressure measures the force needed for blood to circulate in the circulatory system. Blood pressure is closely related to the force and rate of the heartbeat plus the arterial wall's diameter and elasticity.

Normal blood pressure varies based on age, gender, activity levels, and other factors, but it typically falls below 120/80 mmHg. The measurement mmHg refers to millimeters of mercury, the unit used to measure blood pressure.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, includes pressures where the first number is 160 or above, and the lower number is 100 or above. Measurements between normal and high blood pressures are determined to be prehypertensive, which puts a person at risk of developing hypertension. 

What causes high blood pressure?

In most cases, hypertension depends on age or lifestyle. Those who are inactive, sedentary, obese, overweight, eat a high sodium diet, or smoke are more likely to have high blood pressure.

Having a family history of high blood pressure also increases your likelihood, making it essential to note and discuss risk factors with Dr. Modi or Dr. Parihar. High blood pressure can also serve as a symptom of another medical issue like hyperthyroidism or sleep apnea.

What happens if I have high blood pressure?

High blood pressure typically doesn't cause symptoms until it's too late, and a severe medical event develops. That's why Dr. Modi and Dr. Parihar stress the importance of annual exams during which your blood pressure is measured to reduce the risk of a serious medical emergency. 

How is high blood pressure treated?

Dr. Modi or Dr. Parihar will develop an aggressive treatment plan to lower blood pressure through healthy lifestyle changes and medication. Losing excess weight, beginning a diet, avoiding foods high in sodium, eating more fiber and leafy green vegetables, quitting smoking, and being more physically active can have beneficial implications when reducing blood pressure.

Express Family Clinic is currently accepting new patients that need treatment for hypertension. If you would like to discuss healthy lifestyle choices or medication with a physician, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.