It’s estimated that 1 in 3 adults has hypertension, a serious condition that has few symptoms yet can lead to life-threatening medical issues. At Urologic Surgeons of Arizona, Usma Ahmad, MD, specializes in preventing and treating hypertension. She works with each patient to develop an effective, personalized treatment plan. Whether you need to schedule a blood pressure screening or a routine check-up, use the online booking tool or call the Mesa or Gilbert, Arizona, office for an appointment.
Hypertension is also known as high blood pressure. Blood pressure is created as blood flowing through your arteries pushes against the blood vessel wall.
The amount of pressure depends on three variables: the health of your blood vessels, the total volume of blood, and the strength of your heartbeat.
When your blood pressure is high, it damages arterial walls, creating rough spots where cholesterol easily builds up and forms plaque. As plaque hardens and enlarges, it blocks blood flow.
The blood vessel damage and plaque caused by high blood pressure increases your risk for:
High blood pressure is also associated with a higher chance of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
One reason hypertension is so dangerous is because it doesn’t cause symptoms. You can have the condition for years and never have a sign that a problem is building.
In many cases, the first sign occurs when you experience chest pain, a heart attack, or a stroke. That’s why it’s so important to have your blood pressure routinely checked.
Hypertension can arise due to a health problem such as a thyroid imbalance or obstructive sleep apnea. In most cases, however, hypertension develops over time due to:
You may prevent hypertension, or help lower high blood pressure, by eliminating these risk factors.
Treatment for hypertension begins with a plan to change any lifestyle factors that may be contributing to the problem.
Your provider at Urologic Surgeons of Arizona evaluates your diet and recommends changes such as reducing your salt consumption and eating more high-potassium foods. They can also help you quit smoking and create a comprehensive weight loss plan if you need to lose weight.
When lifestyle changes don’t get your blood pressure back to normal, your provider may prescribe medication. Several types of medications are available, and they all work differently, so they choose the one that’s best for you.
To have your blood pressure checked or to get expert help for hypertension, call Urologic Surgeons of Arizona or book an appointment online.
