High blood pressure, clinically referred to as hypertension, greatly increases your risk of a heart attack. If you experience hypertensive symptoms, Colorado Alliance for Health Equity and Practice (CAHEP) in Denver, Colorado, offers several affordable preventive solutions. Call the office today to schedule an appointment or book through the online reservation system.

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What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is the rate at which blood pushes against the walls of the arteries. Millions of people experience hypertensive systems globally, and it’s one of the most common comorbidities in several diseases.

When blood pressure is high, the heart must compensate and pump harder to allow blood flow to important tissues. Over time, this strains the heart muscles and can lead to severe consequences.

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury. Two numbers help indicate the status of an individual’s blood pressure: The top number is systolic pressure, and the bottom is the diastolic pressure.

The systolic number indicates the pressure during the heartbeat, while the diastolic number measures arterial pressure in between heartbeats. A normal blood pressure reading averages around 120/80. High blood pressure is classified as a range above normal values.

What are common high blood pressure symptoms?

Hypertensive symptoms often go unnoticed. Several people may experience high blood pressure but show no signs whatsoever. However, some common symptoms include headaches, shortness of breath, and nosebleeds.

You should contact the expert team at CAHEP if you notice any of these symptoms. Moreover, it’s important to schedule frequent clinical checkups so the team can screen your blood pressure.

What causes high blood pressure?

There are two main types of high blood pressure: primary and secondary hypertension. Primary hypertension results when there’s no identifiable, underlying condition causing high blood pressure. This is likely related to aging and the buildup of plaque over time.

Secondary hypertension is the result of an underlying medical condition or prescription drugs, such as:

  • Kidney disease
  • Thyroid issues
  • Sleep apnea
  • Cocaine and amphetamines
  • Adrenal gland tumors

Secondary hypertension typically persists while the underlying medical issue remains.

Who’s at risk for developing high blood pressure?

Several factors contribute to high blood pressure and hypertensive symptoms. Genetic components, such as age, race, and family history, contribute to high blood pressure development.

Many lifestyle factors also play a crucial role. Physical inactivity, poor diet quality, and large quantities of stress exacerbate hypertension.

Adherence to a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise alleviate high blood pressure symptoms. In severe cases or during the management of comorbidity, your health care provider may prescribe medications to help reduce hypertension.

Call Colorado Alliance for Health Equity and Practice today and schedule an appointment. You can also click on the website’s portal system to book online.