Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when blood pressure is higher than normal. High blood pressure doesn't usually cause noticeable 
symptoms. The only way to find out if your blood pressure is high is to have it checked by your doctor. If left untreated, high blood pressure increases your risk of serious problems such as strokes and heart attacks. RMS Consultations, (located in Southfield, MI, and serving Grand Rapids) offers physical exams and acute and chronic disease treatment to the patients they serve. Read on to learn more about hypertension.
Blood Pressure Overview
Blood pressure is the pressure of blood pushing against blood vessel walls. Your blood pressure naturally rises and drops throughout the day and night. It’s normal for it to go up while you’re moving about. It’s when your blood pressure is consistently high, even when you're resting, that you need to do something about it.
Causes of Hypertension
Most people develop hypertension because of their lifestyle, diet or health condition. Sometimes hypertension runs in families and can also worsen with age. The things that can increase your risk of getting high blood pressure include excessive alcohol use, being sedentary, smoking, being overweight, eating too much salt, and certain medications, such as birth control pills.
Risks of Hypertension
If your blood pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your heart, blood vessels, and other organs, such as your kidneys and brain. Persistent high blood pressure can increase your risk of a number of serious health conditions, such as strokes, heart attacks, heart disease, heart failure, kidney disease, aortic aneurysms, and peripheral arterial disease.
Diagnosing Hypertension
Your doctor will use a stethoscope, gauge, or electronic sensor, and a blood pressure cuff. She or he will take two or more blood pressure readings at separate appointments before making a diagnosis. You have hypertension if your readings show that your systolic is 140 or higher or your diastolic is 90 or higher. A blood pressure reading above 180 /120 is dangerously high and requires immediate medical attention.
Treatments for Hypertension
Changing your lifestyle can go a long way toward controlling hypertension. Your healthcare provider may recommend you make lifestyle changes including eating a healthy diet, exercise, losing weight, and limiting the amount of alcohol you drink. But sometimes lifestyle changes aren't enough. Your doctor may also recommend medication to decrease your blood pressure.
Your health matters! Don't delay- call RMS Consultations at (248) 663-5353 right now a schedule an appointment for your annual physical exam in Southfield, MI, and serving Grand Rapids. At RMS Consultations, your health will be in good hands!
