So you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure. Most of us have been there too – it can be scary at first. But you’re not alone in this. Nearly 1 in 2 adults are dealing with hypertension, which is just the medical name for high blood pressure.
While uncontrolled blood pressure is no joke and can cause some serious health issues if left unmanaged, here’s the good news – with the right treatment and some lifestyle tweaks, it can be brought under control. The key is working closely with your primary care physicians to find the plan that works for you.
The Complexities of Blood Pressure
We know blood pressure can seem complicated with so many different factors impacting those numbers – genetics, age, weight, diet, exercise, stress levels and more. But your primary care doctor is like your partner in the ring – they’ve got the expertise and experience to help make sense of it all for you.
With a thorough understanding of your unique health history and profile, your doc can offer personalized recommendations tailored to your specific needs and situation.
Maybe it’s changing up your diet, finding ways to be more active, learning some stress management techniques – or maybe you do need to be on medication. The point is, your doctor will collaborate with you to find what works.
And one of the most effective weapons against high blood pressure? Lifestyle changes. Your primary care physician can give you insider tips on unhealthy habits that could be spiking those numbers – like eating too much sodium, not exercising enough, drinking excessively or smoking.
So your primary care doc can give you the inside scoop on any not-so-healthy habits that could be spiking your blood pressure. You know, stuff like eating too much salty or processed food, not staying active, having one too many margaritas, or smoking.
The good thing is, you and your doctor can put your heads together to come up with a plan to make some lifestyle tweaks that you can actually stick with day-to-day. Maybe it’s finding ways to cut back on sodium or get more exercise that fit into your routine. Or setting a goal to limit alcohol to the weekends only.
Your physician is there to brainstorm ideas with you, set realistic goals, and help you build long-term healthy habits. You’re a team working on this together! Your doctor may recommend specific goals for:
- Following a healthy diet low in sodium, saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates
- Aiming for 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise like brisk walking
- Reaching or maintaining a healthy body weight
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke
- Adopting stress management practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing
- With encouragement and accountability from your doctor, you’ll have an ally supporting you in forming sustainable healthy habits
Medications for Controlling Blood Pressure
In addition to lifestyle strategies, your primary care physician may prescribe blood pressure lowering medications if needed. By carefully reviewing your health history and special considerations, your doctor
can select medications likely to be safe and effective for you.
To help manage potential side effects, your doctor will collaborate with you on finding the ideal medication type and dosage. Through ongoing partnership, your doctor can determine if medication adjustments may be beneficial over time.
With compassion and clinical expertise, your trusted primary care doctor can oversee your blood pressure treatment plan in alignment with your goals, preferences, and changing needs.
The Power of Routine Primary Care
One of the most valuable roles your primary care physician plays is conducting routine blood pressure checks at periodic well visits. In between visits, you may monitor your blood pressure at home. However, your primary care office is equipped to take standardized measurements and detect any troublesome changes.
Through continuity of care, your doctor tracks your blood pressure trends over months and years. This provides the comprehensive perspective needed to keep your blood pressure under control for the long run. If concerning patterns emerge, your doctor can swiftly respond and modify your treatment approach as needed.
Summing Up
Managing high blood pressure requires commitment and work. But with compassion and expertise on your side, you don’t have to go it alone. Your primary care physician at PCP for Life is there to educate, encourage, and empower you each step of the way. By working together, you can take control and achieve your blood pressure goals. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
