Patched Up!: Not Pumped For High Blood Pressure

By Dr. Robert Pugh, Palmetto Internal Medicine
Roper St. Francis Physician Partners

Living in the Lowcountry has many benefits; however, high blood pressure (or hypertension) is not one of them. An estimated 68 million people are affected by high blood pressure in the U.S. and more than 33 percent of South Carolinians have the condition.

The good news is that high blood pressure can be controlled. The bad news is that uncontrolled high blood pressure may lead to heart disease and stroke, which are major causes of death in the U.S. and is a prevalent cause of death right here in the Lowcountry.

There are several risk factors that contribute to high blood pressure and they include: high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity and lack of physical activity. The risk of having high blood pressure increases in both men and women with age, and in some cases it can be linked to something as simple as a person’s genetics.

It would be helpful if high blood pressure came with the normal warning signs we are accustomed to seeing, feeling or hearing. Unfortunately, warning signs or symptoms rarely exist, and the condition is often referred to as the “silent killer.”

According to the American Heart Association, determining if you have high blood pressure is the first step for prevention and control. If no family history of high blood pressure exists, people should have their blood pressure checked once every two years starting at age 20. This should be sufficient for most people; however, if a family history of high blood pressure is present, a person should have his or her blood pressure checked twice a year.

If you have already been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are on medication, follow the advice of your doctor and take your medications regularly. Sounds like common sense but it’s important advice. Why?  It’s not that uncommon for people to feel good and think they don’t need to take their medication. Remember, hypertension is called the silent killer for a reason, and taking prescribed medication regularly is a critical step in the process of helping to regulate the condition.

Uncontrolled, high blood pressure can slowly harden arterial walls and decrease the amount of oxygen to the heart. Over time chest pain may develop, heart failure may begin and a heart attack can occur.

In an effort to help prevent high blood pressure, keep in mind that a healthy lifestyle reaps healthy rewards.  See a doctor  prior to engaging in vigorous exercise. Even a simple, consistent walking routine can do wonders for your overall health. In our community a quick swim is one of the best overall exercise routines for those who suffer from aching joints or other weight bearing activities.

It’s also important for people to properly manage stress. Even though stress has not been confirmed as a risk factor for high blood pressure or heart disease, research shows that stress can temporarily raise a person’s blood pressure. The problem then becomes how people deal with stress. Those who don’t manage stress well tend to engage in activities that contribute to high blood pressure such as poor eating, drinking, smoking and lack of exercise. Learning how to cope with stress has its advantages.   Trying a yoga class or even a simple walk on the beach can do wonders to lift your spirits and lower your blood pressure.

A well-balanced diet is another important factor needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The right types and balance of foods will actually work to prevent and control high blood pressure. Eating the right foods means your diet should be low in salt, fat and cholesterol and high in fresh fruits and vegetables. It may take a little time getting adjusted to your new grocery list; however, buying whole, fresh foods as opposed to the readily available processed or “convenience” foods, such as those in a prepackaged box, will be worth the investment.  This is the perfect season to start experimenting with fresh fruits and vegetables during the Lowcoutry’s growing season. Check out your local farmers market for the freshest produce available.

Living a healthy lifestyle can’t be emphasized enough and is crucial in the prevention and management of high blood pressure. Even though there is currently no cure for hypertension, it can be managed when people are proactive toward their health and wellness.

Hypertension doesn’t have an age limit. Young adults can have it as easily as older ones. It also doesn’t discriminate against personality types or calm and laid-back mannerisms. Remember it is often silent, and you won’t know if you have it unless you get it checked.  

If you need help getting your blood pressure under control, we are welcoming new patients. Call (843) 651-0044 for an appointment.