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Hypertension
How is hypertension diagnosed?
One high blood pressure reading is not enough for a diagnosis of hypertension. Most people will have higher readings when under physical or emotional stress. Blood pressure should be measured when you are relaxed and rested. There are several ways to find out that you have hypertension:
- Ask your doctor
- Measuring your blood pressure at home
How is hypertension treated?
High blood pressure is a disease that cannot be cured. But it can be managed over time through a combination of diet, exercise, and the right medication for you. Medical guidelines state that a normal blood pressure for most adults is less than 120/80 mm Hg. Drug treatment is recommended if your blood pressure is at or above 140/90 mm Hg.
Where can I learn more about hypertension?
What are the symptoms of hypertension?
Hypertension can occasionally cause headaches, vision problems, dizziness, or shortness of breath, but most people with hypertension have no symptoms. This is why hypertension is referred to as the “silent killer.” Hypertension is usually discovered at a regular medical check-up when a doctor or nurse takes a blood pressure reading.
What do I need to talk to my doctor about?
You may want to ask your doctor:
- What is my current blood pressure?
- What is my blood pressure goal?
- Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to further reduce my blood pressure? If I am not at my blood pressure goal, would adjusting my dosage, switching medications, or adding a new medication help?
- How often should my blood pressure be checked?
What happens if my hypertension goes untreated?
Left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to stroke and heart disease. Concerned that high blood pressure may be under-diagnosed among people of age 18 – 35 years, new guidelines released by the Heart and Stroke Foundation advocate that it can, and should, be diagnosed and managed much earlier.
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On March 7th, 1996 Sandoz and Ciba-Geigy, the two Swiss-based chemical/life sciences giants, became Novartis
