According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, close to 75 million adults across the nation have high blood pressure. While you may not notice any apparent symptoms, untreated hypertension can have severe consequences. At the office of Dr. Chaula Patel in the Bronx, we monitor your ongoing health and provide a holistic and integrative approach to care. We can help you manage high blood pressure and protect your overall wellbeing.
Blood pressure is simply a measure of the force of blood against the walls of your arteries as it's pumped from the heart throughout the body. When one's blood pressure is consistently too high, it can damage the blood vessels over time. Your heart will also need to work harder, and cardiovascular problems will ensue. Hypertension significantly increases your risk of a heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney failure, and other health problems. What's more, those experiencing hypertension report increased states of agitation and anxiety, which in turn can further aggravate the condition.
Diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors contribute to the risk of hypertension. Diets that are high in salt content are a common cause of high blood pressures. Being overweight as well as certain underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, and thyroid gland disorders, also go hand in hand with high blood pressure. What's more, substances such as alcohol, drugs, and certain medications can serve as compounding factors.
Recognizing and treating hypertension in its earliest stages can be instrumental in preventing further health problems. A comprehensive physical exam with Dr. Patel not only includes a routine blood pressure check but also involves an extended conversation to gather a complete portrait of one's medical history and current lifestyle. By taking a fully informed and integrative approach to care, Dr. Patel offers her patients individualized treatment founded upon a complete understanding of their needs and concerns. In addition to medication, Dr. Patel offers various treatment options, including dietary advice and a comprehensive weight management program for patients who may benefit from it. Dr. Patel will also advise patients in stress management techniques or fitness plans.