HYPERTENSION

Hypertension is a common, but dangerous condition that affects one in three American adults. Dr. Karen Russell-Little of Amity Internal Medicine and Total Body in Bingham Farms, Michigan, offers ongoing treatment for patients with high blood pressure. To discuss healthy management of your elevated blood pressure, call or book an appointment today.

Hypertension Q & A

What is hypertension?

Hypertension (HTN), commonly called high blood pressure, is a condition in which the pressure of the blood inside your blood vessels is higher than is healthy for your body. 

Your blood pressure naturally fluctuates throughout the day, depending on your activity level. The force of your blood pressure is the method by which oxygen-rich blood travels to the cells of your body. Your blood pressure should rise with activity and lower with rest. 

With HTN, your blood pressure does not lower with rest, and it stays elevated on a continual basis. This is severely damaging to your heart and blood vessels, which must work harder to pump blood.

High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for the two most leading causes of death: stroke and heart disease.

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

Often called the “silent killer,” this condition may not have any symptoms at all, and many people do not know they have it. The only way to know you have high blood pressure is by having your blood pressure checked regularly.

This is why regular check-ups are important to your overall health, especially if you have been told you have HTN or high blood pressure. 

What causes high blood pressure?

For some, high blood pressure is caused by another health problem, such as obstructive sleep apnea, thyroid problems, and kidney disease. For most adults with HTN, however, there is no specific cause.

You may be placing yourself at higher risk for HTN if you:

  • Smoke, use tobacco, or vape

  • Have a diet high in sodium

  • Have a diet high in fat

  • Use illicit drugs

  • Drink excessive alcohol

  • Are obese

  • Do not have an active lifestyle

Although this condition is dangerous, you can do a lot to help reduce your risk and improve your elevated blood pressure readings. 

What treatments are available for HTN?

The best line of defense for improving high blood pressure is a healthy lifestyle. With the help of Dr. Russell-Little, you should:

  • Maintain a healthy weight

  • Eat a healthy diet

  • Avoid excessive alcohol

  • Do not use illicit drugs

  • Stop smoking

If lifestyle changes are not enough to lower your blood pressure to a healthy range, medication may be an option. 

To check for high blood pressure and lower your risk for serious complications from HTN, call or book an appointment today.

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