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McElderry, Michael
Lafayette
Cardiologist - Dr. Michael McElderry is a Baton Rouge, Louisiana, native. He received his undergraduate degree at LSU...
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your guide to:
Hypertension
 what is hypertension & why is it dangerous?
A blood pressure reading between 120/80 and 139/89 indicates pre-hypertension, a condition that sometimes precedes hypertension. A higher reading indicates hypertension, a condition that causes damage to arterial walls and increases the chance for formation of blood clots. It is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, as well as cerebrovascular disease (diseases that effect the blood flow to the brain) and atherosclerosis (clogged arteries).
how is hypertension diagnosed?
Hypertension often has no symptoms. However, you may experience mild headaches, nosebleeds, dizziness or spots before your eyes. Since hypertension can be a silent killer, it is important to have regular medical checkups.
A standard blood pressure check can alert your doctor to the possible presence of hypertension. A health care professional will record two numbers when checking your blood pressure. The first number recorded is your highest pressure (systolic). This is the pressure of the blood pushing against the wall of the blood vessel when the heart is beating. The second number recorded is the lowest pressure (diastolic). This is the pressure of the blood pushing against the wall of the blood vessel when the heart is at rest between beats.
Generally, several blood pressure readings above 140/90 are required to determine a diagnosis of hypertension.
what causes hypertension?
Some people are at a higher risk for hypertension. Some of the factors that increase your risk are:
lifestyle
background
medical history
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being overweight
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a cholesterol level of over 200
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a history of diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or arterial disease of the legs
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a previous stroke
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longer than a year since your last blood pressure check
The higher the number of risk factors that apply to you, the greater your chances are of being diagnosed with hypertension.
how can you control hypertension?
If you are diagnosed with hypertension, your doctor may suggest a plan to help control it. This plan may include any or all of the following changes:
diet
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Reduce your daily intake of salt and fat to two grams or less of each.
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Read food labels carefully and use them as a guide to healthy choices.
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In cooking, remember that the "three Bs" are best -- bake broil or boil.
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Eat sensible portion sizes.
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When eating out, choose from the "healthy heart" menu when available.
activity
weight
lifestyle
habits
medication & checkups
Please note that this Web site cannot replace regular discussions with your doctor or healthcare professional.
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