The A To Z Facts About

High Blood Pressure

NEW MILFORD — Cardiologist Michael Levine, MD, discussed the A to Z facts about high blood pressure at a recent Community Health Forum at New Milford Hospital.

Dr Levine explained that high blood pressure is caused by the excessive force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls. The top number (systolic) measures the pressure when the heart beats and the bottom number (diastolic) is the pressure when the heart is a rest. Blood pressure higher than 140/90 is considered elevated.

According to Dr Levine one in every four adults has high blood pressure and in most cases the exact cause is unknown. Because there are usually no warning signs it is very important to get it checked regularly. Untreated high blood pressure can lead to strokes, heart attacks, heart failure and kidney failure.

Those at risk for high blood pressure are people who are over 35 years of age, overweight, use too much salt and/or alcohol, women on birth control pills, pregnant women, people who are inactive, highly stressed people, African-Americans and those with close blood relatives who have it. Dr Levine explained that some of these factors are beyond our control, but we can control many of them.

Overweight people can reduce the strain on their hearts by losing weight and following a healthy eating plan. Cutting down on salt reduces the excess fluid in your body, thus lowering your blood pressure. Reducing alcohol intake and maintaining a regular exercise regime are also factors that can help. Making time for relaxation and getting away from stressful situations also lowers blood pressure. Various types of drugs are available, but Dr Levine advised that the medicine only works if you take it.

The drugs most commonly prescribed for high blood pressure are diuretics, beta blockers, ace inhibitors and calcium channel blockers. Diuretics help eliminate salt and water from the body, thus reducing the pressure in the arteries. Dr Levine explained that these cause increased urination and are best taken early in the day because, if taken in the evening, sleep is more than likely going to be disrupted. Calcium channel blockers and ace inhibitors release constricted blood vessels, thus allowing blood to flow through more easily. When asked which medication works best, Dr Levine explained that there are many factors that determine the type of medication or medications prescribed. What works for one person may not work for another. That is why it is very important for the doctor and the patient to work together.