High Blood Pressure Specialist

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a chronic health condition that affects the walls of your blood vessels. Blood pressure measures the force of blood against the blood vessel walls, which is highest when your heart beats.

High blood pressure means the force is too high. Over time, excess pressure causes your blood vessels to stiffen and narrow, making your heart work harder to pump the blood. 

The condition also increases your risk of developing other health conditions, such as heart disease and kidney disease. Further, it puts you at risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

How do I know if I have high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it develops without causing symptoms. The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is by getting your blood pressure evaluated.

Clinica San Miguel is a family medicine practice committed to providing comprehensive care to the communities they serve. They offer all general health services, including primary care services, annual physical exams, and treatment for unexpected illnesses and injuries.

Every time you come in for care, the Clinica San Miguel team checks your blood pressure. One higher-than-normal blood pressure reading doesn’t mean you have high blood pressure. 

However, if your provider has concerns about your readings, they may recommend that you monitor your numbers at home or have you come to the clinic for periodic blood pressure checks. 

Your provider may diagnose you with high blood pressure if you have elevated blood pressure readings on three separate office visits.

How is high blood pressure treated?

Treatment for high blood pressure may include lifestyle changes, medication, or both. Your provider at Clinica San Miguel customizes your treatment plan based on your blood pressure readings and related health complications.

Lifestyle changes that can help lower your blood pressure include:

• Limiting salt in your diet
• Eating more fruits and vegetables
• Getting regular exercise
• Weight loss
• Smoking cessation

The team may also prescribe blood pressure medication to help you lower your numbers and improve your health.

You can get control over your high blood pressure when you have a team of health professionals dedicated to improving your health and well-being. Call Clinica San Miguel or schedule your high blood pressure appointment online today.