Hypertension is a very common condition which nearly a third of US adults suffer from. Most of us know it as high blood pressure. Hypertension care involves the monitoring and treatment of abnormal blood pressure.
What many people don’t realize is that if left untreated, hypertension increases the risk of developing major health issues. It’s therefore important to be diagnosed and receive the correct treatment and hypertension care as quickly as possible.
Complications of hypertension
Unfortunately, hypertension often shows no symptoms. Many people may suffer for years, never knowing they have blood pressure issues.
Hypertension happens when there is increased blood flow in your arteries. Over time, this causes a strain on the heart and blood vessels. The longer high blood pressure goes uncontrolled, the more issues are likely to occur.
Thickening of the arteries and heart muscles can lead to heart attack, stroke and heart failure. Narrowed arteries can lead to problems with the kidneys and eyes. It can also cause problems with memory and could contribute to dementia.
Early diagnosis is vital to receiving hypertension care and preventing major complications
How a patient is diagnosed
Diagnosis is easily made. However, as there are no symptoms, it is recommended that you have your blood pressure checked every year over the age of 40.
We have all heard TV doctors and nurses use the phrase “BP is 90 over 60”. But what exactly does that mean?
During a blood pressure test, two readings are taken – the systolic pressure and the diastolic pressure. The first measures the amount of blood the heart is pumping around the body. The second measures how much resistance there is to the flow of blood in the arteries. Both are measure in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
A normal reading would be between 90/60 (90 over 60) and 120/80. A reading of 140/90 indicates high blood pressure. The greater the amount of blood being pumped and the thinner the arteries, the higher the blood pressure will be.
Here at Haym Salomon Home for Nursing & Rehabilitation in Brooklyn, our staff carry out regular blood pressure tests. Once an assessment and diagnosis has been made, we can ensure patients receive the appropriate hypertension care.
Prognosis
Although hypertension can lead to serious illness, in the majority of cases, prognosis is very positive. High blood pressure needs to be identified quickly to control it, and reduce the risk of further complications.
Once a doctor recommends a treatment plan, it is vital to stick with it. This may mean life-long medication and changes in your lifestyle. If the plan is followed, there is no reason why patients should not live a long and healthy life.
Hypertension care at Haym Salomon Home
Here at Haym Salomon Home, hypertension care is a primary focus. Our highly-skilled staff regularly monitor residents’ blood pressure. This ensures that high blood pressure can be identified quickly.
Medications are prescribed as necessary. However, we also focus on helping our patients lead a healthier lifestyle to keep their blood pressure under control. Exercise is something that all our patients are encouraged to do.
Even gentle stretching or taking part in a yoga class can help to lower blood pressure. Diet is also an important factor, and meals are tailored to ensure a low sodium intake.
Every patient is different and requires personalized hypertension care. At Haym Salomon Home, our experienced staff is focused on providing the best care possible.