High blood pressure is common in adults — and is one of the most preventable diseases. The American Heart Association reports that nearly half of all Americans over the age of 20 have high blood pressure. Many don’t even know it. It’s one of those conditions that’s usually detected during a routine exam or if you’re being treated for an unrelated issue. Learn now how to avoid this potentially dangerous condition with guidance and treatment from specialists at the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center in Queens, New York. Call today for an appointment.
Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure is a common condition that often has no signs or symptoms. When you have high blood pressure, the intensity of the blood pushing against the blood vessel walls is too high. If it goes unchecked, the condition can damage your cardiovascular system.
Your blood pressure reading gives your doctor important information about the health of your heart. That’s why you need to keep your regular appointment checkups with your cardiologist or primary care physician. Prevent problems with your heart through early detection; it’s the surest way to avoid hypertension and all its complications.
Keep your blood pressure under control with the aid of the medical professionals at the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center in Queens, NY. This multi-specialty practice has access to the latest treatment options and specialists available, including cardiologists and vein doctors.
Understanding Blood Pressure Numbers
Two numbers are used to measure blood pressure. These two numbers represent the pressure in your arteries, first when you heart beats and then when it rests between beats. The top number is called systolic blood pressure and the second number is known as diastolic blood pressure.
The average healthy blood pressure is under 120/80. Everyone’s blood pressure spikes every now and then, such as when you exercise. But your blood pressure is considered high if your systolic pressure is 130 or higher, while your diastolic pressure is 80 or higher and stays elevated over time.
How Can You Prevent High Blood Pressure?
For optimum health and longevity, be proactive about your health. Your Medex doctor offers a wealth of information about how to maintain a healthy blood pressure. Some tips include:
- Get regular aerobic exercise
- Eat healthy foods that include fresh vegetables, fruit, whole grains and low-fat
- Avoid smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight for your body type
- Learn to manage stress
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Sleep long enough
Making healthy lifestyle choices helps you prevent high blood pressure. Doing the right things makes it less likely that when you do occasionally experience elevated blood pressure levels, it doesn’t damage your health.
Diagnosing High Blood Pressure
It’s possible to have high blood pressure for a long time without knowing it, which is why it’s commonly referred to as the silent killer. In fact, most people who have this condition don’t experience any symptoms. The most common symptoms include regularly get nosebleeds, headaches or shortness of breath. Other symptoms include:
- Frequent facial flushing
- Blood spots in your eyes
- A pounding feeling in your chest or head
These symptoms don’t always mean you have elevated blood pressure. The only way to accurately record your blood pressure is by having it checked by your cardiologist or primary care doctor at the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center. Your doctor takes your blood pressure over several visits to get a normal reading for you. You may also be asked to monitor your blood pressure at home.
What Are the Causes of Hypertension?
There are two kinds of hypertension. Primary hypertension doesn’t have a single identifiable cause because it usually develops gradually over time. It typically corresponds to your lifestyle choices. Secondary hypertension develops suddenly and is caused by an underlying condition or medication such as:
- Thyroid problems
- Kidney problems
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Tumors on the adrenal gland
- Medications like cold remedies, birth control pills or over-the-counter pain relievers
High blood pressure runs in families so your risk of developing this condition increases if others in your family have it. You’re at risk of high blood pressure if you lead a sedentary lifestyle or if your diet is too high in sodium. The risk of developing hypertension increases as you get older.
Treating High Blood Pressure
Lifestyle changes make the biggest difference if you’re just starting to develop hypertension. Get active, limit sodium in your diet and work on losing weight if you need to. Your doctor may prescribe medication to keep your blood pressure under control. You may need more than one type of medication to reach your blood pressure goal. Medications commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure include:
- Diuretics
- Calcium channel blockers
- ACE inhibitors
- Angiotensin receptor blockers
- Beta blockers
- Vasodilators
Keeping blood pressure under control reduces your risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease, heart attack and other serious conditions. Whether you need a primary care doctor or a specialist in cardiology, gastroenterology or endocrinology, you’ll get the best care from the top doctors in Queens when you visit the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center. Contact the multi-specialty practice today for an appointment.
We can help you find a doctor. Call (718) 275-8900
Licensed by the state of New York, Medex is an Article 28 diagnostic and treatment center. Our physicians provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages in the Forest Hills, Queens area, for over 15 years. Start receiving expert care now by calling or scheduling an appointment online with one of the skilled specialists.
FAQ
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What are the first steps in treating high blood pressure?
Initial treatment includes lifestyle changes such as reducing sodium intake, increasing physical activity, losing excess weight, limiting alcohol, and following a DASH diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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When are medications recommended for high blood pressure?
Medications are advised if lifestyle changes alone do not lower blood pressure to target levels within 3–6 months, or immediately if readings are consistently above 140/90 mm Hg or if other cardiovascular risk factors are present.
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What classes of blood pressure medications are commonly used?
Common classes include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), beta‑blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics, each targeting different mechanisms to lower pressure.
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How do diuretics help control high blood pressure?
Diuretics help the kidneys remove excess sodium and water, reducing blood volume and consequently lowering blood pressure.
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What lifestyle modifications support medication therapy?
Complementary measures include regular aerobic exercise, a heart‑healthy diet, stress management, smoking cessation, and consistent home blood pressure monitoring.
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Can high blood pressure be treated without medication?
In mild cases, strict adherence to lifestyle modifications—diet, exercise, weight loss, and reduced salt intake—can sometimes normalize blood pressure without drugs.
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How often should blood pressure be checked during treatment?
Patients should monitor at home daily or weekly, and see their healthcare provider every 1–3 months until levels stabilize, then at least every 6–12 months.
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What dietary changes lower high blood pressure?
Adopt the DASH diet: increase fruits, vegetables, and low‑fat dairy; reduce saturated fat, cholesterol, red meats, and sweets; and limit sodium to 1,500–2,300 mg per day.
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How does exercise contribute to blood pressure control?
Regular moderate‑intensity exercise (150 minutes/week) strengthens the heart, improves vessel elasticity, and can lower systolic blood pressure by 5–8 mm Hg.
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Are there natural supplements for high blood pressure?
Some evidence supports garlic, fish oil (omega‑3 fatty acids), and potassium supplementation, but always consult a healthcare provider before beginning any supplements.
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When is combination therapy used?
If single‑agent therapy fails to achieve targets, combining two drugs from different classes can have additive effects and improve blood pressure control.
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What side effects should I watch for with blood pressure medications?
Common effects include dizziness, fatigue, cough (with ACE inhibitors), leg swelling (calcium channel blockers), or electrolyte imbalance (diuretics). Report severe or persistent symptoms to your doctor.
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How is treatment adjusted if blood pressure remains high?
Providers may increase dosage, add another medication class, evaluate adherence, or investigate secondary causes such as kidney disease or hormonal disorders.
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Can stress management lower blood pressure?
Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, yoga, and biofeedback can reduce stress‑related spikes and contribute to long‑term blood pressure reduction.
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Is salt restriction important in high blood pressure treatment?
Yes. Limiting sodium intake to 1,500–2,300 mg per day is a cornerstone of non‑pharmacologic treatment, significantly lowering blood pressure and cardiovascular risk.
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How does weight loss affect blood pressure?
Losing even 5–10% of body weight can reduce systolic pressure by about 5–20 mm Hg, making weight management a key component of treatment.
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What role does alcohol play in blood pressure management?
Excessive alcohol raises blood pressure. Moderation—up to one drink per day for women and two for men—can help maintain healthier readings.
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How long does it take for treatment to lower blood pressure?
Medication effects begin within hours to days, but full benefit and lifestyle changes may take 4–6 weeks to achieve target levels.
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When should I see a specialist for high blood pressure?
Referral to a cardiologist or hypertension specialist is recommended for resistant hypertension (uncontrolled on three or more medications), suspected secondary hypertension, or evidence of organ damage.
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What ongoing monitoring is needed after blood pressure is controlled?
Even when targets are met, continue regular home checks, periodic lab tests (electrolytes, kidney function), and annual cardiovascular risk assessments to maintain long‑term control.
