Hypertension is a cardiovascular condition associated with high blood pressure above the normal level of 120/80. Left untreated, hypertension increases the risk for a stroke, heart attack, or other heart problems. Dr. Swati Gupta, the board certified cardiologist at SKG Heart Center in Houston, TX, treats hypertension and can help you bring your blood pressure back down to normal levels.

Symptoms of Hypertension

Hypertension does not always produce noticeable symptoms so many individuals with the condition do not even realize they have high blood pressure. Those who do develop symptoms might experience one or more of the following:

• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe headaches
• Blood in the urine
• Blurred vision
• Nosebleeds
• Confusion
• Fatigue

Causes of Hypertension

Several factors can lead to an increased risk of developing high blood pressure. Common causes of hypertension include:

• Aging
• Diet high in salt
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Being overweight or obese
• Family history of high blood pressure
• Having a thyroid disorder
• Having sleep apnea
• Excessive alcohol use
• Smoking tobacco
• Stress

Treatment for Hypertension

It is important to seek treatment for hypertension. Taking steps to lower blood pressure also helps reduce the risk of various cardiovascular problems, including stroke, heart attack, and heart failure. The experienced cardiologist at our heart center in Houston, TX, diagnoses and treats hypertension. Dr. Gupta will develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

Treatment for hypertension could include prescription medications to help lower blood pressure. Any underlying condition, such as a thyroid disorder or sleep apnea, that is contributing to high blood pressure should also be treated. Addressing those conditions can help bring blood pressure down to normal levels.

Making lifestyle modifications also plays a critical role in treating hypertension. Based on your individual situation, the doctor might recommend one or more of the following lifestyle changes:

• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Exercising moderately for at least 30 minutes regularly
• Incorporating more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in your diet
• Consuming a low-fat and low-sodium diet
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking
• Reducing stress

If you are dealing with high blood pressure, we can help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Gupta to learn more about treating your hypertension by calling SKG Heart Center in Houston, TX, at (713) 623-6555.