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Hypertension

Family Medicine & Primary Care Center located in Robbins, NC

Hypertension services offered in Robbins, NC

Up to 47% of American adults have high blood pressure (hypertension). Hypertension doesn’t present symptoms, but it’s a potentially serious issue that requires intervention. At North Moore Family Practice, family medicine specialists Vonda Reives, FNP-C, and Kristin Hockersmith, FNP, provide various treatments for hypertension, including nutrition guidance, exercise recommendations, and prescription medication. To make an appointment, call the office in Robbins, North Carolina, or book online today.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is a chronic disease defined by high blood pressure. If the force of the blood pumping through your veins remains higher than average, it increases your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Hypertension is a silent but potentially deadly condition. It doesn’t cause obvious side effects, so it’s crucial to visit North Moore Family Practice for routine checkups and blood pressure screenings.

When should I be screened for hypertension?

North Moore Family Practice recommends getting screened for hypertension every two years. If you’re over the age of 40 or have a history of other heart-related medical issues, more frequent checkups might be necessary.

What are the types of hypertension?

North More Family Practice treats both types of hypertension:

Primary hypertension

Primary hypertension occurs due to lifestyle factors, like smoking, drinking, and not exercising. It tends to worsen gradually as you age.

Secondary hypertension

Secondary hypertension occurs rapidly due to an underlying medical issue, like kidney disease or diabetes. You might also experience secondary hypertension as a result of taking medication, like oral contraceptives or over-the-counter pain relievers.

How is hypertension diagnosed?

North Moore Family Practice diagnoses hypertension during an in-office visit.

Your provider reviews your medical records and checks your blood pressure with a tool called a sphygmomanometer. This tool features an inflatable cuff and a pressure-measuring gauge. 

A blood pressure reading of 120/80 mm/Hg (millimeters of mercury) is considered “normal,” while a reading of 121-129/80 is considered elevated.

If the first number is 130 or higher, or the second number is over 80, it means you have high blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, your provider makes treatment recommendations.

How is hypertension treated?

North Moore Family Practice treats hypertension using an integrative and conservative approach. First, they recommend healthy lifestyle changes like exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, managing your stress, and getting good sleep.

If those steps don’t make a significant difference, you might benefit from prescription medication. Your North Moore Family Practice provider might recommend:

  • Diuretics
  • Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
  • Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Alpha-blockers
  • Alpha-beta blockers
  • Beta-blockers
  • Renin-inhibitors

Prescription medication can keep your numbers in check and reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

If you’re concerned about having hypertension, make an appointment at North Moore Family Practice by calling the office or booking online today.