Hypertension

Hypertension services offered in Lanham, MD and Washington, DC

One in three American adults is living with high blood pressure, but many don't realize they're at risk. At Chivic Healthcare Services in Lanham, Maryland, and Washington, DC, you can receive regular blood pressure checks and comprehensive physical exams. The team of specialists can help you develop a plan to lower your blood pressure. Left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to organ failure, heart attack, or stroke. Don't ignore your high blood pressure. Let Chivic Healthcare Services provide the personalized care you need to keep your blood pressure under control. Call the office today or reach out online.

Hypertension Q&A

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Normal blood pressure measurements are usually below 120/80. Higher results may be a sign that you have hypertension.

Many people skip their routine blood pressure checks and ignore the signs of hypertension. But your blood pressure plays a vital role in your overall health. Hypertension can put you at risk for heart attacks, strokes, and organ failure.

Medication and lifestyle changes can usually control hypertension. But it's important to treat high blood pressure right away.

What causes hypertension?

The arteries and blood vessels in your body are designed to be flexible. As your heart pumps, it expands and contracts to allow for smooth blood flow.

But sometimes, your arteries and blood vessels become rigid. Pressure builds inside the arteries, and it's more difficult for blood to flow throughout your body. Your heart has to work much harder to pump blood. Over time, the strain on your body can cause permanent damage.

Many different medical conditions and lifestyle choices are linked to high blood pressure.

Some common causes of high blood pressure include:

Smoking
Obesity
Heavy drinking
Heart disease
Kidney disease
High cholesterol

Some people are genetically predisposed to have high blood pressure. If many people in your family have hypertension, you might develop it, too. Your risk of developing hypertension also increases as you age.

Could I have hypertension?

High blood pressure is known as "the silent killer" because it may not cause any symptoms. But, hypertension can cause serious damage to your organs. Many people are already suffering organ damage from it and don't realize it.

That's why it's essential to choose a doctor that performs in-depth physical exams. Your provider can help you monitor your blood pressure during each visit. If you develop blood pressure problems, they can provide a prompt diagnosis and begin treatment right away.

How is hypertension treated?

During each office visit, your provider checks your blood pressure. If your blood pressure is slightly high, you may have prehypertension. Lifestyle changes often treat this condition. They may recommend that you lose weight, change your diet, or quit smoking.

But if your blood pressure is much higher than normal, you might need medication. Many different prescription drugs can help lower your blood pressure. Your provider can choose the medicine that's right for you.

For expert hypertension treatment, contact the office by phone or schedule an appointment online.