Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to serious health complications like stroke and heart disease. Using a multifaceted approach to care that considers every aspect of your health, Ralf Lukner, MD, PhD, can help lower your blood pressure at Lukner Medical Clinic, conveniently located in the Pampa Mall in Pampa, Texas. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, develops when the force of blood hitting the artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this pressure can cause damage to the arteries and increase the risk of health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Blood pressure consists of two numbers: systolic (when the heart beats) and diastolic (when the heart is at rest). When your blood pressure repeatedly measures above 130/80 mm Hg, you may have hypertension.
High blood pressure rarely causes symptoms, making it a “silent” condition. When it does cause symptoms, the condition is usually advanced. Telltale signs of high blood pressure include:
Without treatment, high blood pressure can damage your body’s organs and tissues. Comprehensive care is essential to lower your blood pressure and prevent complications.
Two types of high blood pressure can cause health complications:
Primary hypertension causes up to 95% of all high blood pressure cases. It usually has no singular cause. Many factors can contribute to primary hypertension, including poor diet, inactivity, smoking, and other lifestyle habits.
Secondary hypertension is far less common and develops from an underlying medical condition, such as thyroid disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or heart disease.
Blood pressure testing is a safe, non-invasive procedure that takes only a few minutes. Dr. Lukner and his staff place a soft cuff (called a sphygmomanometer) around your arm, inflate it to compress the brachial artery, and slowly deflate it. The test takes less than a minute and provides vital information about your blood pressure.
Treating high blood pressure requires a multifaceted approach that includes diet, lifestyle changes, and medication. Effective treatments for hypertension include:
Dr. Lukner works with you to develop a plan that eases your symptoms and lowers your blood pressure.
Call Lukner Medical Clinic today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about high blood pressure.