Hypertension

Roughly 75 million people in the United States have high blood pressure (hypertension). Because even a moderate increase in your blood pressure stresses your heart, you can undergo comprehensive management solutions at Expedient Medical, PLLC, led by board-eligible internal medicine physician Sarwat Khawar, MD. Book an exam at the Williamsville, New York, office immediately if you have a history of hypertension or recently had a high blood pressure reading. You can conveniently schedule either online or by phone.

How does a doctor diagnose hypertension?

Diagnosing high blood pressure requires a series of readings with a blood pressure cuff. The reading evaluates two things: systolic and diastolic pressure. Your systolic pressure, or the upper number, accounts for the pressure that occurs in your arteries with each heartbeat.

Your diastolic pressure, or the lower number, measures arterial pressure between beats. Your blood pressure needs to stay below 120/80 mm Hg for optimal heart health. Your reading is considered elevated if your blood pressure is slightly higher than this.

Dr. Khawar generally diagnoses stage 1 hypertension if your blood pressure exceeds 130/80 mm Hg. Once it spikes above 140/90 mm Hg, Dr. Khawar will likely diagnose you with stage 2 hypertension. 

What causes hypertension?

Hypertension can fall into the primary category, meaning you don’t have an identifiable cause. Primary hypertension develops gradually over time. 

But it’s also possible to have secondary hypertension that’s linked to an underlying health condition, such as:

• Thyroid issues
• Kidney problems
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Certain prescription medications 

In either case, your risk of hypertension further goes up if you have a family history of high blood pressure, are overweight, or follow a high-sodium diet. Because hypertension has so many causes, Dr. Khawar works diligently to treat you as a whole person in an effort to improve your overall health. 

Do I need treatment for hypertension?

Yes. Even just slightly elevated hypertension is a cause for concern. Dr. Khawar counsels you about lifestyle changes you need to make to bring your blood pressure back down. He may recommend:

• Losing weight
• Adding more fiber to your diet
• Taking dietary supplements, such as fish oil
• Consuming less than 1,500 milligrams of sodium daily
• Getting more exercise (at least 150 minutes weekly)
• Following the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet 

In more advanced stages of hypertension, medication may be necessary, too. Dr. Khawar will talk with you about some of the available blood pressure-lowering medications, so you can work together to determine which one may be best for your health and your lifestyle.

If you need help managing hypertension, contact Expedient Medical, PLLC, to get started on a personalized treatment plan. Book your visit through the website or over the phone today.