Our Services / Hypertension

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Every time your heart beats, it pumps blood through your arteries. This pumping action places a degree of force on the walls of your arteries. When your arteries become narrowed because of the accumulation of plaque or other conditions, your heart has to work harder to move that blood, and the pressure on arterial walls increases. 

Blood pressure is measured both by the pressure created during each heartbeat (systolic) and in the pause between heartbeats (diastolic). Readings of 120/80 or below are considered normal and healthy. Readings that rise above 130/80 are indicators of hypertension, and the higher the readings, the higher your risk for health problems. 

How do I know if I have high blood pressure?

Diagnosing hypertension is a simple and straightforward process. Your blood pressure is measured at K Primary Care & Medical Nutrition Center during each office visit and recorded in your medical record.

You can also track your blood pressure at home and bring a log to the office during your visit. Dr. Kewalramani reviews your home blood pressures as well as office blood pressures to decide whether your blood pressure is controlled or whether you will require further treatment.

How can I manage my blood pressure?

There are many ways to reduce your blood pressure including lifestyle modifications and medications. 

Medications are often helpful in the early stages of treatment if the primary focus is to reduce dangerously high blood pressure levels. Some drugs work to help your body flush excess fluids and sodium; others relax or widen your artery walls to improve blood flow. 

In the long term, lifestyle modifications are an essential part of controlling blood pressure. Choosing nutritious food, getting enough exercise, improving sleep quality, and managing stress are powerful tools for fighting high blood pressure. 

At K Primary Care & Medical Nutrition Center, Dr. Kewalramani can help you incorporate healthier habits into your daily lifestyle. Book your visit online or by phone today to get started.