Hypertension

Hypertension is an often silent condition that increases your risk of serious health conditions, like stroke. At Open Door Wellness Center in Great Falls, Montana, the experienced primary care team can lower your blood pressure and improve your cardiovascular function with holistic, evidence-based care. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about hypertension.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension occurs when your blood pressure is too high over time. Blood pressure is the force of blood against your artery walls. When your blood pressure remains too high for long periods, it can damage the blood vessel walls. The blood vessels can weaken and harden over time, restricting blood flow throughout your body.

Without proper treatment, hypertension raises your risk of potentially dangerous health complications, including heart disease, vision impairment, and stroke. 

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

Many people consider hypertension a silent condition because it rarely causes symptoms. When it does, the condition is typically advanced. Common signs of hypertension include:

• Headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• Anxiety

As hypertension advances, it can start to cause more concerning symptoms, such as chest pain and muscle tremors. The sooner you seek treatment for hypertension, the more likely you are to prevent serious health complications.

What causes hypertension?

Hypertension usually develops gradually. It can go unnoticed for several years without symptoms. There are two types of hypertension that can damage your blood vessel walls:

Primary hypertension

While primary hypertension has no single cause, many factors can lead to it. Carrying extra weight, following an unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise are the most common causes of primary hypertension.

Secondary hypertension

Secondary hypertension is far less common. Underlying illnesses, such as diabetes, kidney disease, and thyroid disorder, raise your risk of this type of hypertension.

The team at Open Door Wellness Center performs a wide range of tests to determine the cause of your hypertension. First, the team uses a blood pressure cuff to screen for hypertension. 

If your blood pressure measures more than 130/80, then your doctor may run additional tests, such as blood work, urinalysis, and an electrocardiogram (EKG). Open Door Wellness Center has an in-house lab where you can receive all your testing under one roof.

What are the treatments for hypertension?

Hypertension is typically manageable with proper diet and lifestyle changes. At Open Door Wellness Center, the team may recommend the following hypertension treatments:

• Following a healthy, low-sodium diet
• Exercising regularly
• Quitting smoking
• Limiting your alcohol and caffeine intake
• Taking medication

Call Open Door Wellness Center today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about hypertension.