Hypertension and High Blood Pressure Treatment in Houston, TX ,
Nearly half of adults in the United States have hypertension, and many do not know it. At Houston Family MD, board-certified family medicine physician Ranjit Grewal, MD, and his team provide blood pressure screening, diagnosis, and long-term management for patients in Houston, TX , and Cypress. With the right plan, you can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious complications.
What Is Hypertension?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when that force stays consistently too high. Over time, elevated pressure damages blood vessels and forces your heart to work harder, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health problems. Regular screenings, early detection, and timely treatment can protect your health and even save your life.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Hypertension is often called the silent killer because it usually causes no symptoms, especially in the early stages. When blood pressure reaches dangerously high levels, you may notice:
- Severe headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Chest pain
- Vision changes or dizziness
If you experience these symptoms, seek medical care right away. For chest pain or signs of stroke, call 911.
Risk Factors for Hypertension
Common risk factors include:
- Older age
- Being overweight or having obesity
- Family history of high blood pressure
- Physical inactivity
- Too much sodium or too little potassium in your diet
- Chronic stress
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Excessive alcohol use
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease
Uncontrolled hypertension increases your risk of heart failure, stroke, heart attack, aneurysm, kidney damage, and dementia.
How Hypertension Is Diagnosed
Diagnosing high blood pressure starts with accurate readings taken with a blood pressure cuff. Because readings can vary, Dr. Grewal may check your blood pressure at several visits or ask you to monitor it at home using the daily blood pressure log on our patient forms page. He also reviews your medical history and symptoms, performs a physical exam, and may recommend lab work or an electrocardiogram (EKG) to evaluate your heart health.
High Blood Pressure Treatment Options
Your personalized hypertension treatment plan may include:
Lifestyle Changes
Healthy habits can lower blood pressure naturally or reduce the amount of medication you need. Examples include regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet low in sodium, weight loss, limiting alcohol, quitting tobacco, and managing stress.
Medications
If lifestyle changes are not enough or your readings are very high, Dr. Grewal may prescribe blood pressure medication. He monitors your response and adjusts your treatment to keep your numbers in a healthy range with minimal side effects.
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular follow-up visits help ensure your blood pressure stays under control and allow us to screen for related concerns, such as high cholesterol and kidney function changes.
High Blood Pressure FAQs
What is considered high blood pressure?
Blood pressure is generally considered high when readings are consistently 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Dr. Grewal will interpret your readings and explain what they mean for your health.
Can high blood pressure be cured?
Hypertension is usually a lifelong condition, but it can be well controlled with lifestyle changes and medication, greatly lowering your risk of complications.
How often should I have my blood pressure checked?
Most adults should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year. If you have hypertension or risk factors, more frequent checks and home monitoring may be recommended.
Can I lower my blood pressure without medication?
Many patients can lower their blood pressure through diet, exercise, weight loss, reducing sodium and alcohol, and quitting tobacco. Some patients still need medication to reach a healthy range.
Should I monitor my blood pressure at home?
Home monitoring is a helpful way to track your progress between visits. A daily blood pressure log is available on our Patient Forms page to bring to your appointments.
Is high blood pressure linked to diabetes?
Yes. Diabetes and hypertension often occur together and both increase the risk of heart disease. Our team can manage both conditions in one coordinated plan.
What should I do if my blood pressure is very high?
If your reading is extremely high or you have chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, or vision changes, seek emergency care right away by calling 911.
Protect Your Heart Health Today
Routine blood pressure screenings and timely treatment are among the best ways to prevent heart disease and stroke. Call Houston Family MD at (281) 477-0525 or request an appointment online.