High Blood Pressure
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Sydney Crackower, M.D.
Family Practice located in Lafayette, LA
Did you know that you can have high blood pressure and not even know it? If left uncontrolled, high blood pressure may increase your risk of having a stroke or heart attack. Sydney Crackower, MD in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a family medicine physician who can help you track and manage your blood pressure to improve your health and help you stay well. For high blood pressure control, call the office or schedule an appointment online.
High Blood Pressure Q & A
What is high blood pressure?
High blood pressure, also referred to as hypertension, is when the force of the blood against your artery walls is chronically higher than normal. Your blood pressure includes the pressure when your heart is beating, systolic, and in between beats, diastolic.
Normal blood pressure: 120mm Hg/80 mm Hg or less
Elevated blood pressure: 120 to 129 mm Hg/80 mm Hg
Stage 1 hypertension: 130 to 139 mm Hg/80 to 89 mm Hg
Stage 2 hypertension: 140 mm Hg/90 mm Hg or more
High blood pressure is often referred to as a silent disease because it develops without giving you any signs or symptoms. The only way to know if your blood pressure is high is to get it checked. Dr. Crackower recommends you come in annually for your physical exam so he can track your numbers and help you keep your blood pressure in check.
What are the types of high blood pressure?
High blood pressure is divided into two types. These include:
Primary Hypertension
Primary hypertension, also called essential hypertension, refers to a type of high blood pressure that develops gradually over time and has no known cause.
Secondary Hypertension
Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure that develops from an underlying medical condition. Medical conditions that increase blood pressure include:
- Kidney disease
- Thyroid problems
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Congenital defects
Your risk of developing high blood pressure increases as you get older. You may also be at risk of developing high blood pressure if you have a family history of the disease, you’re obese, or you eat a diet high in salt.
How can I improve my blood pressure?
If you have high blood pressure, Dr. Crackower works with you to help improve your numbers. Before prescribing medication, he may suggest lifestyle changes such as:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Limiting your intake of salty foods
- Getting regular exercise
- Quitting smoking if you smoke
Losing weight can also help lower blood pressure. Dr. Crackower offers a medical weight-loss plan to help you get to and maintain a healthier weight.
If your blood pressure remains elevated after making lifestyle changes, Dr. Crackower may prescribe medication.
For help managing or monitoring your blood pressure, call Dr. Crackower’s office today, or schedule an appointment using the online booking tool.
