Hypertension

In the United States alone, more than 100 million people struggle with hypertension — also known as high blood pressure — according to the American Heart Association. Elyse Cohen, MD, at Cohen Concierge in Naples, Florida, understands that hypertension puts you at risk of severe health complications, such as heart disease and stroke. That’s why Dr. Cohen is committed to helping you control your blood pressure in the healthiest way possible. For more information, call Cohen Concierge or schedule an appointment online.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common condition that occurs when the force of your blood hits your artery walls at a high rate.

While this isn’t a problem in the short-term, long-term high blood pressure can damage your blood vessels and put you at risk of heart disease, stroke, aneurysms, and more.

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

Many people have high blood pressure for years before they realize it. While you may have no symptoms at all, some of the most common symptoms of hypertension include the following:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Vision changes
• Redness in the face (flushing)

In severe hypertension cases, you may experience blood in your urine or frequent nosebleeds. If you experience either of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with Cohen Concierge right away.

What causes hypertension?

Most adults with hypertension have no known cause. This is often called primary hypertension, and it tends to develop slowly over several years. However, if you have secondary hypertension, an underlying condition may be increasing your blood pressure.

Some of the most common conditions and medications that can cause hypertension include:

• Sleep apnea
• Thyroid disease
• Kidney problems
• Adrenal tumors
• Congenital defects
• Cold and flu medicine
• Hormonal birth control
• Decongestants
• Illegal drugs (amphetamines, cocaine, etc.)

You are also more likely to develop hypertension as an adult if you have a family history, are overweight, use tobacco, follow a high-sodium diet, or are not physically active.

How is hypertension treated?

Some of the most common ways to lower your blood pressure are:

Medication

Certain medications, such as thiazide diuretics and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, can help lower your blood pressure. Dr. Cohen may also recommend changing the medications you’re currently taking to get your blood pressure under control.

Diet

Reducing your salt intake and alcohol consumption alone can significantly reduce your blood pressure if you suffer from hypertension. Lowering your fat intake and increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetables is also essential.

Exercise

One hundred fifty minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a week can dramatically lower your blood pressure and keep you fit and healthy.

Stress reduction

There is often a link between high blood pressure and stress. An evening walk, warm bath, meditation, and yoga are a few techniques that help reduce chronic stress.

To learn more about the hypertension treatments available at Cohen Concierge, call the office or schedule a visit online.