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High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the most common yet silent threats to your heart and overall health. Often called the “silent killer,” it can go unnoticed for years while quietly damaging your arteries and increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications. At Dr.Harikrishna Cardio, we are committed to spreading awareness and helping patients manage their blood pressure effectively for a healthier life.
What Is High Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against your artery walls. When this pressure remains consistently high, it is referred to as hypertension. A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mm Hg. If it’s consistently higher—especially above 140/90 mm Hg—you may be dealing with high blood pressure.
There are two types of hypertension:
- Primary (essential) hypertension: Develops over time without an identifiable cause.
- Secondary hypertension: Caused by underlying conditions like kidney problems, hormone issues, or medications.
Why High Blood Pressure Is Dangerous
Hypertension often has no symptoms, but it steadily increases the workload on your heart and arteries. Over time, this can lead to:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Vision loss
- Cognitive decline
Early detection and control are crucial to prevent these complications.
Common Symptoms (If Any)
Though many people experience no symptoms, some may notice:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Chest pain
However, these often occur only when blood pressure reaches life-threatening levels.
Causes and Risk Factors
There are several factors that can contribute to high blood pressure:
- Unhealthy diet: High in salt, fat, and cholesterol
- Lack of physical activity
- Obesity
- Smoking and alcohol use
- Family history
- Chronic stress
- Age (risk increases with age)
Understanding these factors can help in preventing or managing the condition effectively.
How Is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed?
The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to measure it. At Dr.Harikrishna Cardio, we use accurate and advanced diagnostic tools to check and monitor blood pressure regularly. Multiple readings over time confirm the diagnosis and help us understand the pattern.
Lifestyle Changes to Control High Blood Pressure
Managing blood pressure doesn’t always mean medication—often, lifestyle changes can make a big difference:
1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Adopt a diet low in salt, saturated fats, and cholesterol. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is especially effective.
2. Exercise Regularly
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. Walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga can help lower your blood pressure and boost heart health.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Even losing a few kilos can significantly lower your blood pressure if you’re overweight.
4. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking
Alcohol and tobacco both increase blood pressure. Limiting or eliminating them can greatly improve your cardiovascular health.
5. Manage Stress
Chronic stress contributes to hypertension. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and spending time with loved ones can reduce stress levels.
Medications for Blood Pressure Control
Sometimes, lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough. In such cases, medication may be necessary. Common classes of blood pressure medications include:
- Diuretics (water pills)
- Beta-blockers
- ACE inhibitors
- Calcium channel blockers
- ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers)
Each person responds differently to medications, so it’s important to work closely with your doctor to find what works best for you.
Regular Monitoring and Checkups
Controlling high blood pressure is not a one-time task—it’s a lifelong commitment. Regular checkups with a cardiologist help ensure your blood pressure is under control and your heart remains healthy.
At Dr.Harikrishna Cardio, we offer personalized hypertension management plans, combining clinical expertise with compassionate care. Our clinic provides both in-person and online consultations to suit your needs and lifestyle.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a specialist if:
- Your blood pressure consistently reads 140/90 mm Hg or higher
- You have other risk factors like diabetes or kidney disease
- You experience symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath
Don’t wait for complications to appear—early intervention can save your life.
Why Choose Dr. Harikrishnan Cardio for Hypertension Care?
Dr. Harikrishnan Parthasarathy and his team at Dr.Harikrishna Cardio are dedicated to heart health and patient well-being. With advanced facilities and a personalized approach, the clinic has become a trusted name for hypertension and other cardiac conditions in Chennai.
We don’t just treat numbers—we care for people. Our goal is to empower you to take control of your health through education, support, and expert medical care.
Conclusion
High blood pressure may be silent, but it shouldn’t be ignored. By making smart lifestyle changes and working with a knowledgeable cardiologist, you can manage your blood pressure and protect your heart for years to come.
If you or your loved one is concerned about high blood pressure, don’t hesitate. Schedule a consultation with Dr.Harikrishna Cardio today and take the first step towards a healthier future.
