We’re celebrating Men’s Health in June and helping to raise awareness among men in our area about ailments that commonly affect them. One of those ailments is High Blood Pressure. High blood pressure is something that is often talked about, but all too often addressed when it is too late. If left untreated, high blood pressure can have serious health consequences and result in permanent disability or even death.
High Blood Pressure: The Silent Killer
Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure typically has no signs or symptoms. For this reason, it is often referred to as a “Silent Killer.” Men are generally at a higher risk than women for hypertension throughout their life. In general, the prevalence of hypertension increases as we age. Because of this, it is important for men to better understand the causes and treatment of high blood pressure and to know how to protect themselves.
Here Are Some Key Things You Should Know
Most people with HBP are symptomless.
Others may experience:
• Severe headache
• Shortness of breath
• Nosebleed
• Severe anxiety
• Feeling of pulsations in the neck or head
Primary hypertension can be caused by lifestyle, environment and age. Secondary hypertension can be caused by a health problem like diabetes, kidney problems or a medication.
You can help to prevent hypertension by:
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Getting regular exercise
• Reducing salt intake
• Managing tension and stress
• Eating a well-balanced diet rich in calcium, potassium and magnesium
Get Regular Blood Pressure Screenings
Getting regular medical physicals or screenings which include a blood pressure check are important for an early diagnosis of hypertension.
Do not let high blood pressure go unchecked. After a prolonged period, untreated high blood pressure can cause heart disease and related complications such as heart attack, stroke and even heart failure.
Other complications include:
• Fluid buildup in the lungs
• Vision loss
• Kidney damage
• Erectile dysfunction
• Memory loss
At Everest Urgent Care in Upper Darby and Chester, no appointment is necessary to get a BP checkup. Walk-ins are accepted every day. CONTACT US to learn more.
