Hypertension

Mercy Family Clinic

Family Medicine Practice & Medical Weight Loss Clinic located in Dallas, TX

Hypertension develops when your blood pressure is consistently too high. It increases your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious health conditions, but managing it can make a big difference for your wellbeing. At Mercy Family Clinic, Ebere Azubuike, MD, offers comprehensive hypertension care for men and women living in Dallas, Texas, and surrounding communities. Learn more about controlling blood pressure by booking your appointment by phone today.

214-942-2377

Hypertension Q & A

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. When your heart pumps blood through your body, it exerts pressure on the walls of your arteries. Hypertension occurs when the force against artery walls is consistently too high.

Over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause damage to blood vessels and organs throughout your body. It might lead to an aneurysm, heart attack, stroke, or heart failure. In some cases, it can cause kidney and eye damage.

How is blood pressure measured?

Blood pressure readings have two numbers: systolic and diastolic. Systolic is the top number in the reading, and it measures pressure when your heartbeats. Diastolic is the bottom number, and it measures the pressure in your arteries between heartbeats.

Hypertension has stages based on blood pressure reading and the severity of your condition.

An ideal blood pressure reading is near or below 120/80. A consistenly high blood pressure reading of 140/90 means you could be at risk for heart or vascular damage.

What are the risk factors for hypertension?

Blood pressure can elevate when arteries get narrower, or your heart needs to pump more blood to fuel your body. There’s no apparent cause in many patients, but certain factors may make it more likely you’ll experience hypertension.

You might be at increased risk for hypertension if you:

Are above age 50
Are overweight or obese
Have an inactive lifestyle
Smoke or use tobacco products
Drink alcohol daily
Have a family history of hypertension
Are of African descent

Hypertension is closely related to high cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy substance in the blood, and it can build up inside arteries over time. When cholesterol blocks arteries, blood pressure can rise and increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.

How can I manage my hypertension?

Hypertension is common, but proper care reduces your risk of complications. Medication to manage hypertension can be a good option for some patients, and the team may recommend lifestyle changes to improve health as well.

Lifestyle changes for hypertension and high cholesterol include eating a heart-healthy diet that is low in sodium intake and high in whole grains, fruit, and vegetables. Work towards getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Take control of your health with hypertension and high cholesterol care at Mercy Family Clinic. Learn more by booking your first appointment by phone today.