Hypertension

Hypertension is the principal risk factor for death and disability across the world, but of the one-third of American adults who suffer from this potentially dangerous condition, many don't even know they have high blood pressure. At Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC in Indian Land, South Carolina, family nurse practitioner Cassandra Calloway, MSN, FNP-C, BSN, RN, can get your blood pressure back on track with preventive care and blood pressure screenings. If you're due for a preventive care visit, call the office or request an appointment online today.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic condition that causes the force of blood inside artery walls to become too high, leading to heart disease and other health problems over time. Early detection and treatment of hypertension are among the best ways to prevent a heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.

Does hypertension cause any symptoms?

In many cases, hypertension doesn’t produce any symptoms. That’s why routine blood pressure screening is so important. However, if blood pressure reaches dangerously high levels, you might notice shortness of breath, nosebleeds, or headaches.

What are the risk factors for hypertension?

While anyone can have hypertension, certain factors increase your risk of developing it. Examples include:

• Family history of high blood pressure
• Older age
• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Stress
• Smoking
• Too much salt
• Too little potassium
• Heavy drinking
• Chronic diseases

Your risk of high blood pressure increases if you have diabetes, sleep apnea, kidney disease, or other chronic conditions.

How does my doctor diagnose hypertension?

To check for high blood pressure, Cassandra reviews your medical history, discusses your lifestyle habits, and asks if you take medications or have unusual symptoms. 

Cassandra uses a blood pressure cuff and machine or a stethoscope to determine how high your blood pressure is. The procedure is fast and painless.

What are common blood pressure treatments?

The primary treatments for high blood pressure include:

Lifestyle changes

Natural ways to reduce hypertension include weight loss, regular exercise, healthy eating habits, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and keeping stress levels low. Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods, while limiting your sodium intake. 

Blood pressure medications

Taking medications can reduce blood pressure levels when lifestyle changes don’t work, or your pressure becomes dangerously high. Cassandra personalizes each medication regimen to find one that’s right for you.

Don’t let high blood pressure cause serious problems for your health. Call the Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC office to schedule a blood pressure screening or book an appointment online today.