Blood Pressure Management
Cardiology & Internal Medicine located in Merrillville , IN
Up to 47% of American adults have high blood pressure, a chronic condition that increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. At Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare in Merrillville, Indiana, double board-certified internal medicine physician and cardiologist Stephanie Marshall, DO, FACOI, FACC, and her team use blood pressure management to reduce the risk of heart disease and encourage optimal well-being. Call the office to request a blood pressure management consultation or book online today.
Blood pressure management combines nutrition education, exercise guidance, preventive screenings, and (when necessary) prescription medication to reduce your risk of heart disease.
High blood pressure is one of the most common heart-related medical conditions, affecting nearly 116 million Americans. Unfortunately, it rarely presents symptoms, so you might have it but not know it.
At Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare, the team uses blood pressure management to treat both types of high blood pressure, including:
Primary high blood pressure develops slowly, as a result of aging and other lifestyle factors. For example, you might develop high blood pressure if you smoke, drink alcohol, and don’t exercise regularly.
Secondary high blood pressure occurs because of an underlying medical issue, like diabetes or kidney disease. Secondary high blood pressure develops suddenly and is typically more serious than primary high blood pressure.
After the age of 18, it’s crucial you undergo blood pressure screening every two years. That’s especially true if you have a family history of heart disease or you develop symptoms like headaches, nosebleeds, or shortness of breath.
If you have chronic high blood pressure, they can refer you to Dr. Marshall and the team at Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare.
At Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare, a blood pressure management consultation begins with a review of your medical records, a discussion of your lifestyle, and a physical exam.
Dr. Marshall also takes your blood pressure with an inflatable cuff and a pressure-measuring gauge. A normal blood pressure reading is 120/80 (mm/Hg). Any number higher than that indicates high blood pressure.
Dr. Marshall checks your blood pressure several times before making treatment recommendations.
Treatment of high blood pressure depends on various factors, including your age and general cardiovascular health. Dr. Marshall might recommend:
If your blood pressure stays high, even after making these changes, Dr. Marshall might prescribe medication. Several types of medication can treat high blood pressure, including:
Dr. Marshall and the team monitor your blood pressure at regular checkups and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.
To learn more about blood pressure management, call Queen of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare or book online today.