Hypertension

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is known as the “silent killer” since there are no symptoms. One in five people who have hypertension don’t even know they have it. If uncontrolled, hypertension can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure or kidney failure.

It only takes a few minutes to have your blood pressure taken. This simple test is quick and painless. If you do have high blood pressure, you can take steps to reduce it, so work with a PriMed physician to determine the best treatment for you.

PriMed has been recognized as a national leader in controlling hypertension. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) named PriMed a "2014 Hypertension Control Champion." According to the CDC, only 47% of US patients with high blood pressure achieve a blood pressure of less than 140/90. It's been shown 92% of PriMed's patients with hyperension were treated successfully, which makes PriMed one of the top practices in the country for patient outcomes, in the Million Hearts Initiative.

The American Medical Group Association has also recognized PriMed for "Best Control Rates" in the Measure Up Pressure Down campaign.

Take all your medicines. Some people don't like to take medications, but taking high blood pressure medicine is much better for you than having high blood pressure. If your blood pressure remains high, it can hurt your brain, your heart, your kidneys and your arteries.

Exercise at least a little bit. It may only be a few walks each day, but it really helps.

Follow the DASH Diet. It's the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. Learn more at https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/dash

See your doctor at the time you agreed to meet next. Your physician wiill want to check your progress and adjust your medication, if necessary. This is a time to discuss any concerns you may have.