High Blood Pressure 

bout 103 million American adults currently suffer from high blood pressure — that’s about half of the adult population. With high blood pressure comes an increased risk for stroke and other serious health problems — but you can take control of the problem with your physician’s help. Dalewood Medical Center in Woodbridge, Virginia, offers high blood pressure prevention, diagnosis, and ongoing support to help you get your blood pressure under control. Book your appointment online or via phone now. 

 

High Blood Pressure Q & A 

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What does my blood pressure reading mean? 

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At Dalewood Medical Center, you'll typically get a blood pressure reading each time you come in for an annual physical or another health issue.

 

• Normal blood pressure: under 120/under 80 

• Elevated blood pressure: 120-129/under 80 

• High blood pressure (stage 1): 130-139/80-89 

• High blood pressure (stage 2): 140 or more/90 or more 

• Hypertensive crisis: 180 or more/120 or more 

Elevated blood pressure is a warning sign that you need to monitor your blood pressure more closely in the future. If you have high blood pressure at any stage, your Dalewood Medical Center will help you take the right steps to get healthy again. 

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What if high blood pressure isn't treated? 

Untreated high blood pressure is a serious problem, and it can even be fatal. When your blood pressure is too high, it places too much stress on your heart and blood vessels. 

While occasional blood pressure spikes don't necessarily cause damage, the strain of continued high blood pressure can contribute to stroke or heart attacks. High blood pressure may also cause heart disease, kidney disease, dementia, eye damage, and other serious illness. 

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What is the treatment for high blood pressure? 

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The good news about high blood pressure is that you may not need major treatment. Often, you can lower your blood pressure by making some lifestyle changes. Your doctor can recommend some lifestyle changes for you, such as: 

• Losing weight 

• Reducing salt intake 

• Drinking less alcohol 

• Eating less fat 

• Exercising more often 

If you're dedicated to making changes, your odds of lowering your blood pressure are quite good. However, there are some patients who can't get their blood pressure down with only lifestyle changes. If that's your case, your doctor can prescribe medication to help. 

Whether you lower your blood pressure through lifestyle choices, medication, or a combination of those two things, it's important to monitor your blood pressure regularly. Your doctor may recommend that you keep a blood pressure monitor at home or use a blood pressure monitoring app on your phone. 

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If you notice a change in your blood pressure, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor at Dalewood Medical Center for help. 

Brooding about high blood pressure? Let your Dalewood Medical Center doctor help you get healthy again. Book online or call the office today.