Take These Steps Immediately If You Have High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is considered a “silent killer” for good reason. Some one in three adults in the United States has this condition without realizing it, largely because symptoms rarely arise until there’s a dangerous complication.

On the positive side, there's a lot you can do to turn this scenario around. And we’re here to help.

Our team at Jeffery Tun, MD, with offices in Midtown East, Forest Hills, and the Queens neighborhoods in New York City, diagnoses and treats high blood pressure. By recommending a personalized treatment, we aim to protect your health long-term.

Let’s delve into this common condition, including important steps to take if you have it.

What having high blood pressure actually means

Your blood pressure is a measure of the force of your blood through your arteries. When that force is perpetually excessive, you have high blood pressure. 

If your blood pressure lands at 120/80 mm HG or lower, your blood pressure is normal. For most people, a reading of 130/80 mg Hg or higher is considered high. 

Having hypertension also means you’re at a heightened risk for potentially life-threatening issues, such as:

• Aneurysm
• Dementia
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Kidney problems
• Metabolic syndrome
• Stroke

Primary hypertension develops gradually, and your lifestyle habits may play a role. Secondary hypertension stems from an underlying condition. 

Regardless of the type, the higher your blood pressure and the longer it goes unmanaged, the more likely you are to develop serious complications.

Steps to take if you have high blood pressure

Once you’re diagnosed with high blood pressure, take it seriously straight away. While hypertension consequences can be dire, you can find relief in knowing that you can turn things around through lifestyle changes and medical treatment.

Depending on factors like your overall health and current lifestyle habits, Dr. Tun may recommend:

• Shifting to a diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Consuming omega-3 fat sources, like certain fish and flaxseeds
• Increasing your activity through approved exercise
• Stopping smoking
• Limiting your alcohol intake

Improving your sleep habits may help, too. While getting fewer than 7-9 hours of sleep per night can increase your blood pressure, sufficient, restful sleep may do the opposite. Steps that may help include sticking to a consistent sleeping/waking routine, sleeping in a dark, comfortable room, and avoiding digital screens before bed.

If lifestyle changes alone don’t bring your blood pressure down to a healthy range, Dr. Tun can prescribe blood pressure-lowering medication. He’ll also help you monitor your blood pressure through regular screenings.

To learn more about hypertension or get the care you need, call one of our offices or request an appointment through our website today.