Understanding Hypertension and Treatment Options in Garland, Texas
Table of Contents
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high.
This can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.
Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood your heart pumps and the resistance to blood flow in your arteries.
When your heart pumps more blood and your arteries are narrow, your blood pressure increases.
Symptoms and Risks
Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
Some people may experience headaches, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds, but these signs are not specific and usually don't occur until hypertension has reached a severe or life-threatening stage.
Risk factors include age, family history, being overweight, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, high-sodium diet, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing hypertension involves measuring blood pressure using a cuff device.
Readings are given in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and have two numbers: systolic pressure over diastolic pressure.
A normal reading is below 120/80 mm Hg.
Hypertension is diagnosed if readings are consistently 130/80 mm Hg or higher.
It's important to have regular check-ups, as blood pressure can fluctuate throughout the day.
Treatment Options
Treating hypertension often requires a combination of lifestyle changes and medication.
Lifestyle modifications include eating a balanced diet low in salt, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and quitting smoking.
Medications may be prescribed to help lower blood pressure and can include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and others.
It's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for you.
Local Resources in Garland, Texas
For residents of Garland, Texas, seeking treatment for hypertension, several local resources are available.
The Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Garland offers comprehensive cardiovascular services and has a team of specialists experienced in managing hypertension.
Additionally, the Garland Heart Specialists provide personalized care plans tailored to individual needs.
It's advisable to consult with these or other local healthcare providers to receive appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Remember, managing hypertension is a lifelong commitment, but with the right support and resources, you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
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