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Hypertension, also called high blood pressure, isn’t a disease you can feel, but it can cause damage to the body that puts you at risk of a heart attack. Zaki Lababidi, MD, FACC, FSCAI, Sharolyn McClurg, NP, and the experienced Cardiology At Home team in Gilbert, Arizona, provide comprehensive hypertension management through telehealth appointments or home visits. Making health care convenient and accessible, Cardiology At Home provides the support and tools you need to improve blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. Call Cardiology At Home today or book an appointment online.
Why should I worry about hypertension?
You should worry about hypertension because it’s a common chronic health condition that develops without causing symptoms and puts you at risk of serious health complications.
Hypertension means the pressure in the arteries is too high. Your blood pressure measures the force of blood against the artery walls during and in between heartbeats.
Over time, the excess pressure causes the walls of the arteries to stiffen and narrow, and the heart has to pump harder to circulate blood. The increased pressure also damages organs like the kidneys, eyes, and heart.
When left untreated, hypertension puts you at risk of having a heart attack or stroke. It may also cause congestive heart failure (CHF), kidney disease, and dementia.
I feel fine. How do I know I have hypertension?
You can’t feel hypertension, and the only way to know if you have it is to have your blood pressure checked. Your doctor takes your blood pressure every time you visit the office.
Your doctor may diagnose you with hypertension if you have higher than normal blood pressure readings at three separate office visits.
When should I see cardiology for hypertension?
The Cardiology At Home team recommends scheduling a hypertension evaluation if you want to improve your blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. You can gain control over your blood pressure when you have the right support and plan.
The Cardiology At Home doctor completes a thorough history and physical and may order diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) or echocardiogram to evaluate the heart.
The cardiology team asks you to track your blood pressure at home and transmit the data to the team so they can get a better sense of how your blood pressure fluctuates as you go about your usual routine.
What can I do to improve hypertension?
Lifestyle changes and medications prescribed by your cardiologist can improve your hypertension. You can improve your hypertension by:
- Eating a heart-healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking
- Getting at least 7 hours of sleep
- Limiting alcohol consumption
The type of medication the doctor prescribes depends on your blood pressure readings and health history. It’s not unusual to need two or more blood pressure medications to control hypertension.
Don’t wait to get your hypertension evaluated by the experts. Call Cardiology At Home today or use the online booking button to schedule a telehealth appointment.