Hypertension Is Silent: Here’s How to Manage It

Nearly half of all adults in the United States live with high blood pressure. And many of them have had the condition for years without noticing a single symptom. That’s why it’s crucial to be proactive. 

At Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, John K. Terzian, M.D., F.A.C.C., and his team 

advocate preventive care in the form of regular blood pressure checks for patients of all ages. They know well how hypertension can turn chronic without symptoms.

The importance of regular blood pressure check-ups

Don’t rely on how you feel as an indicator of whether your blood pressure is high. Unless you have very severe hypertension that causes a hypertensive crisis, it’s unlikely you’ll know your blood pressure is elevated.

Regular blood pressure check-ups are important for preventing and detecting hypertension. Early detection and management of high blood pressure can help prevent serious complications and improve health over the long run. 

If you have a family history of hypertension or other risk factors, such as obesity or a sedentary lifestyle, it's especially important to have your blood pressure checked regularly.

Hypertension and your heart

High blood pressure puts a strain on the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and heart failure. If left untreated, hypertension can cause long-term damage to the heart and blood vessels, leading to serious complications.

Lifestyle changes: the foundation for managing hypertension

While medication can be effective in managing hypertension, making lifestyle changes can also have a significant impact on controlling blood pressure and is the best place to start. 

Here’s a rundown on five ways to best manage blood pressure:

1. Eat a healthy diet

A diet that’s low in sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help to lower blood pressure.

2. Exercise regularly

Shoot for at least 30 minutes of exercise at least five days of a week.

3. Quit smoking

Smoking damages your blood vessels and can raise blood pressure.

4. Limit alcohol intake

Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure, so limit your intake to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

Lifestyle changes are the cornerstone of improving your overall health, including managing hypertension. Talk to Dr. Terzian if you need guidance on making heart-healthy changes. 

Foods to eat to lower blood pressure

Incorporating certain foods into your diet can be an effective way to bring your blood pressure down. Here are our top recommendations:

1. Leafy greens: spinach, kale, collard greens, and arugula are high in potassium, helping blood pressure stay low
2. Berries: strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants
3. Whole grains: brown rice, quinoa, and oats contain soluble fiber, which lowers blood pressure
4. Low-fat dairy: yogurt and other low-fat dairy foods are high in calcium, which helps blood pressure
5. Fatty fish: salmon, mackerel, and tuna are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which fight hypertension
6. Nuts and seeds: almonds, pistachios, and chia seeds are high in potassium, magnesium, and other minerals
7. Dark chocolate: rich in flavonoids, which can help lower blood pressure

Finding ways to add these foods to your diet is an excellent approach to naturally lowering blood pressure. However, a healthy diet is just one part of an overall hypertension management plan.

The link between stress and hypertension

Stress is a common trigger for high blood pressure, and chronic stress can contribute to hypertension. If you’re under chronic stress, make it a priority to develop a stress management plan. 

Incorporate stress-busting activities like yoga, Tai chi, meditation, and deep breathing exercises into your lifestyle.

Medication for hypertension

While lifestyle changes can be effective in managing hypertension, some people may need medication to control their blood pressure. Several types of medication are available, including diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers. If Dr. Terzian prescribes blood pressure medication, it’s essential to to take it as prescribed.

If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or heart health, don’t put off getting an evaluation and expert guidance. Call 508-583-1100 or use the online scheduling tool to request an appointment.  We have multiple offices throughout the region, including East Bridgewater, Bridgewater, Middleborough, Brockton, Easton, Taunton, Plymouth, Mansfield, Pembroke, Braintree, Stoughton, Wareham, Somerset, and Attleboro.