High Blood Pressure

About half of adults have high blood pressure (hypertension), which increases their risk of heart problems and stroke when left untreated. At Ruth Odoi Internal Medicine in Rochester, New York, experienced physician Ruth Odoi, MD, helps you manage high blood pressure using lifestyle changes and medications when necessary. Optimize heart health by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Odoi. Call the office or book an appointment online today.

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common condition in which blood presses against the artery walls, requiring your heart to work harder to pump blood. Without treatment, hypertension may lead to a stroke, heart attack, or other complications. Early detection and treatment of high blood pressure and heart disease can be life-saving.

Does high blood pressure cause symptoms?

High blood pressure often doesn’t make you feel different unless it begins damaging your body. It typically doesn’t cause any symptoms. In fact, 46% of adults with high blood pressure don’t know they have this condition. But if your blood pressure is high, you might develop:

• Chest pain
• Swelling
• Dizziness
• Heart palpitations 
• Mental function changes
• Urinating less than usual 
• Severe headache
• Seizures
• Vision changes
• Eye pain
• Signs of a stroke

Signs of a stroke include slurred speech, arm or leg weakness, and facial drooping. Seek medical attention immediately by dialing 911 if you have signs of a stroke or heart attack. 

What are high blood pressure risk factors?

High blood pressure risk factors may include:

• Family history of hypertension
• Carrying excess weight
• Lack of physical activity
• Being over age 55
• Smoking
• Excess alcohol consumption
• Drug use
• High-sodium diet
• Some medications
• Sleep apnea, thyroid disease, and other medical conditions
• Some medications 

Adopting healthy habits can reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure.

How is high blood pressure diagnosed?

Dr. Odoi reviews your medical history, family medical history, medications, and symptoms to learn if you’re at risk of high blood pressure or have been previously diagnosed with it. She uses a blood pressure cuff and machine to read your blood pressure and completes a physical exam. 

How is high blood pressure treated?

Your personalized high blood pressure treatment plan depends on your lifestyle, treatment preferences, and the severity of your condition. 

You might make lifestyle changes, such as exercising more, eating more fruits and vegetables, and limiting sodium. It’s important to avoid smoking and limit alcohol. Ruth Odoi Internal Medicine offers medical weight loss for patients carrying excess weight. 

Dr. Odoi can also prescribe blood pressure-lowering medications to keep your blood pressure in check and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications. She monitors your blood pressure routinely to ensure it stays within a healthy range. 

Schedule a high blood pressure evaluation at Ruth Odoi Internal Medicine by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.