Millions of Americans Have Hypertension and Don't Know It

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common yet dangerous condition that affects nearly half of all adults in the United States. 

Hypertension quietly damages blood vessels and organs without causing noticeable symptoms, making it difficult to detect without regular medical checkups. Often, individuals don’t realize they have hypertension until they experience severe health complications.

At One Health Medical in Reston, Virginia, board-certified internist Mingliarti Tjahjana, MD, and nurse practitioner Kendra Blythe emphasize the importance of routine screenings for high blood pressure because so many Americans are unaware they have it. 

During your annual visit, your One Health Medical provider measures your blood pressure to determine if you’re at risk. Detecting hypertension early is crucial because it allows for more effective management and prevention of serious health issues.

Understanding high blood pressure

Measuring blood pressure uses two numbers: systolic and diastolic. The systolic number represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, and the diastolic number measures the pressure when your heart rests between beats.

The American Heart Association states a regular blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. We monitor more closely and consider treatment options when your blood pressure reaches:

• Elevated: 120-129 mm Hg systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic
• Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139 mm Hg systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic
• Hypertension Stage 2: 140/90 mm Hg or higher

Having high blood pressure for an extended period can damage your arteries and organs, increasing the risk of severe health problems such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. It’s essential to manage your blood pressure effectively.

Symptoms of a hypertensive crisis

Most people with high blood pressure don’t experience symptoms until their condition becomes severe. However, a hypertensive crisis can occur, requiring immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a hypertensive crisis may include:

• Blood spots in the eyes
• Facial flushing
• Dizziness
• Blurred or double vision
• Nausea or vomiting
• Heart palpitations

Other severe conditions can also cause these symptoms, so seek medical care immediately if you experience any of them.

Risk factors for high blood pressure

Certain risk factors for hypertension are beyond your control; you can manage others with lifestyle changes. Uncontrollable risk factors include:

• Family history: If your parents or close relatives have high blood pressure, your risk increases.
• Age: Hypertension risk increases as blood vessels lose elasticity.
• Gender: Men under 65 are more likely to have high blood pressure than women. However, after age 65, women are more likely to develop the condition.
• Race: African Americans are more prone to high blood pressure than people of other racial backgrounds.

Taking control of your health

Even if you have uncontrollable risk factors, you can take steps to reduce your risk of high blood pressure. These include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight: Achieving and keeping a healthy weight can significantly reduce your risk.
• Eating a balanced diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting salt, sugar, and saturated fats.
• Managing stress: Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise.
• Getting enough sleep: Adequate sleep helps your body recover and reduces stress.
• Limiting alcohol: Drinking alcohol in moderation can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
• Managing chronic conditions: Control other health issues such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and obstructive sleep apnea.
• Avoiding tobacco use: Smoking and using tobacco can raise your blood pressure and harm your heart.

At One Health Medical, our providers are dedicated to helping you manage your blood pressure and overall health. 

Schedule regular checkups with us to monitor your blood pressure and receive guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. We can provide medications and support for weight management and other lifestyle changes.

Knowing your hypertension risk and taking proactive steps to manage it can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce the likelihood of serious health complications. 

Contact our team today. Call the office or book your appointment online.