High Blood Pressure Management in Orlando, FL
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force of blood as it pushes against the walls of the arteries while traveling from the heart to the rest of the body. High blood pressure (hypertension) occurs when the blood pushes against the artery walls with greater force than normal. Hypertension can result from an underlying health condition, such as diabetes or kidney disease, or the use of some medications. It is also associated with certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, consuming a high-fat diet, being overweight, and exercising infrequently.
High blood pressure management is essential because uncontrolled hypertension can lead to several serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
How Do You Know If You Have High Blood Pressure?
In most cases, hypertension does not produce any noticeable symptoms. That’s why regular blood pressure checks are performed at every doctor visit. This simple test involves the use of a blood pressure monitor, which consists of an armband, a small pump, and a meter. After placing the band around your upper arm, a medical professional will squeeze the pump to tighten the band, then stop and observe the meter. Normal blood pressure measures less than 120 systolic (peak pressure as the heart pumps blood into the arteries) and 80 diastolic (pressure between heartbeats).
What Does High Blood Pressure Management Involve?
Controlling hypertension takes a lifelong commitment and ongoing monitoring. Usually, the first step is making lifestyle changes. For instance, your doctor can help you:
- Stop smoking
- Lose weight
- Exercise regularly
- Consume a low-fat diet
- Manage stress
Additionally, your doctor may prescribe an antihypertensive medication to help lower your blood pressure to normal levels. A key component of high blood pressure management is regular blood pressure checks. If your blood pressure can only be controlled with medication, you will need to take that medication for the rest of your life.
Living With High Blood Pressure
Effective health care begins with a strong doctor-patient partnership. In fact, the most effective way to manage hypertension is to partner with a trusted doctor who knows you well. If you’re a member of Optimum Direct Care—a direct primary care (DPC) practice in Orlando, FL—that doctor is Dr. Toni “Muzzi” Muzzonigro.
If you’re a member of our practice and would like to learn more about high blood pressure management, or if you’re not a member and would like to become one, contact Optimum Direct Care today.
