High blood pressure is one of the most common conditions in adults — with nearly 45% of adults in the US having hypertension. But, just because the condition is common doesn’t mean that it’s harmless. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease and stroke if left uncontrolled. So, how do you know if you have high blood pressure? And, what can you do to keep it under control?
Cause of High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is when your blood pressure is greater than 130/80. The first number is the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, while the lower number is the diastolic pressure, which is the pressure in your arteries between beats. The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your arteries, the higher your blood pressure. Common causes of high blood pressure include:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Kidney disease
- Adrenal gland tumors
- Thyroid problems
- Certain defects you’re born with
- Certain medications — such as birth control pills, cold remedies, decongestants, over-the-counter pain relievers, and some prescription drugs
- Illegal drugs
- Other unknown causes
Signs & Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is difficult to pinpoint without testing your blood pressure. So, despite there being some symptoms that are associated with high blood pressure, the best way to determine if you have hypertension before it severely impacts your health is to get a regular physical. That being said, some signs of high blood pressure include:
1. Severe Headaches
2. Nosebleeds
3. Fatigue or Confusion
4. Vision Problems
5. Chest Pain
6. Difficulty Breathing
7. Irregular Heartbeat
8. Blood in the Urine
9. Pounding in Your Chest, Neck, or Ears
How to Control High Blood Pressure
To find out if you have high blood pressure, make sure to schedule an annual physical with your practitioner. If they find that you have high blood pressure, then they’ll work with you to manage your condition before it becomes life-threatening. Many people can lower their blood pressure to a healthy range and keep their numbers in a healthy range by making lifestyle changes. Common preventative measures include:
- Getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week (about 30 minutes per day, five days a week)
- Quitting smoking
- Eating a healthy diet — and limiting sodium (salt) and alcohol consumption
- Keeping a healthy weight
- Managing stress
If You Need an Annual Exam, Nurse Practitioners of Florida Can Help
At Nurse Practitioners of Florida, we have a dedicated team of certified nurse practitioners who have an unwavering commitment to providing you with care and compassion. When you call any of our locations, you will be greeted by a live person who’s ready to offer acute medical care as well as aesthetic procedures. And, above everything else, you will be treated like family.
If you need assistance, call us or fill out our online contact form.