Blood Pressure Specialist

What is blood pressure?

Blood pressure refers to the force of your blood against the walls of your blood vessels. When the team checks your blood pressure, they measures the force of the pressure during your heartbeat, referred to as systolic pressure, and in between beats, referred to as diastolic pressure.

High blood pressure affects one-third of the population in the United States and increases your risk of having a heart attack. It’s also linked to many heart conditions such as sleep apnea. Over time, the excessive force damages your blood vessel walls, as well as your organs.

The team recommends routine blood pressure checks and screenings so you can stay on top of your numbers and make the necessary changes to improve your pressure and reduce your risk of more serious complications.

Does high blood pressure cause symptoms?

In most cases, you can’t feel high blood pressure, which is why it’s referred to as the silent killer. Only when your levels are in life-threatening ranges are you likely to experience any symptoms, such as headaches or nosebleeds. Routine screening is the best way to monitor your blood pressure.

How is high blood pressure diagnosed?

High blood pressure is prevalent in the United States, but one test result showing an elevated level doesn’t necessarily mean you have the condition. In general, to be diagnosed with high blood pressure, your numbers need to be elevated on three office visits.

The team understands that many people suffer from “white coat syndrome,” meaning their blood pressure might rise abnormally when they come to a medical facility. To get a better picture of your numbers, she may suggest you invest in a home blood pressure machine or check your blood pressure when you visit your local pharmacy.

She may also conduct an echocardiogram to assess your blood pressure and its effects on your heart. This noninvasive test allows Dr. Banerjee to evaluate your heart’s pumping mechanism.

What are the treatments for high blood pressure?

The team creates individualized treatment plans to help improve your blood pressure. Before prescribing medication, she may recommend lifestyle changes such as a low-sodium diet and regular exercise. If your blood pressure fails to improve with lifestyle modifications, then she prescribes the most appropriate medication for your high blood pressure.

You can’t feel whether your blood pressure is high, but it can cause significant damage to your body. For screening and management, contact Premier Cardiac and Vascular today or request an appointment online.