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What is blood pressure management?

Blood pressure management combines nutrition education, exercise guidance, preventive screenings, and (when necessary) prescription medication to reduce your risk of heart disease. 

High blood pressure is one of the most common heart-related medical conditions, affecting nearly 116 million Americans. Unfortunately, it rarely presents symptoms, so you might have it but not know it.

Who can benefit from blood pressure management?

At Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare, the team uses blood pressure management to treat both types of high blood pressure, including:

Primary high blood pressure

Primary high blood pressure develops slowly, as a result of aging and other lifestyle factors. For example, you might develop high blood pressure if you smoke, drink alcohol, and don’t exercise regularly.

Secondary high blood pressure

Secondary high blood pressure occurs because of an underlying medical issue, like diabetes or kidney disease. Secondary high blood pressure develops suddenly and is typically more serious than primary high blood pressure.

Who should consider blood pressure management?

After the age of 18, it’s crucial you undergo blood pressure screening every two years. That’s especially true if you have a family history of heart disease or you develop symptoms like headaches, nosebleeds, or shortness of breath.

If you have chronic high blood pressure, they can refer you to Dr. Marshall and the team at Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare.

What happens during a blood pressure management consultation?

At Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare, a blood pressure management consultation begins with a review of your medical records, a discussion of your lifestyle, and a physical exam.

Dr. Marshall also takes your blood pressure with an inflatable cuff and a pressure-measuring gauge. A normal blood pressure reading is 120/80 (mm/Hg). Any number higher than that indicates high blood pressure. 

Dr. Marshall checks your blood pressure several times before making treatment recommendations.

How is high blood pressure treated?

Treatment of high blood pressure depends on various factors, including your age and general cardiovascular health. Dr. Marshall might recommend:

  • Eating a nutritious diet with less salt
  • Getting regular exercise
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Limiting alcohol
  • Quitting smoking

If your blood pressure stays high, even after making these changes, Dr. Marshall might prescribe medication. Several types of medication can treat high blood pressure, including:

  • Water pills (diuretics)
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
  • Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)

Dr. Marshall and the team monitor your blood pressure at regular checkups and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

To learn more about blood pressure management, call Queen of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare or book online today.