Hypertension
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension treatment in Dallas focuses on lowering blood pressure and reducing long-term cardiovascular risk. Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is often called the “silent killer” because it may cause no symptoms while increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss.
Blood Pressure Categories (AHA 2024)
| Category | Systolic (top #) | Diastolic (bottom #) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | < 120 | and < 80 |
| Elevated | 120–129 | and < 80 |
| High BP (Stage 1) | 130–139 | or 80–89 |
| High BP (Stage 2) | ≥ 140 | or ≥ 90 |
| Hypertensive Crisis | > 180 | and/or > 120 |
Why Does It Matter?
Increases risk of:
Heart attack
Stroke
Heart failure
Kidney damage
Vision loss
What Can You Do?
- Monitor your BP regularly
- Eat a heart-healthy diet (e.g., DASH diet)
- Reduce salt (sodium) and processed foods
- Be active — at least 150 minutes/week of moderate exercise
- Plan to spend approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour with the provider for a thorough evaluation.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Limit alcohol & avoid smoking
- Manage stress
- Take medications as prescribed if lifestyle isn’t enough
When to Get Help?
If your blood pressure is >180/120 and you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, vision changes, or weakness, this may indicate a severe case of hypertension — call 911 immediately. For ongoing hypertension management and preventive care, schedule a checkup at Insight Heart Health to keep your blood pressure under control.
