High Blood Pressure Specialist
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CorCareTx
Cardiologists located in McKinney, TX
Medical researchers estimate that as many as one-third of adults over age 20 in the United States are living with high blood pressure. Because high blood pressure, or hypertension, doesn’t have any specific symptoms, regular checkups are important for your heart health. As a leading cardiologist in McKinney, Texas, Brian Eades, MD, FACC, welcomes new patients who struggle with high blood pressure. His practice at CorCareTX offers flexible scheduling, even for new patients. Call or use the online booking feature to make an appointment to get your blood pressure under control, for good.
High Blood Pressure Q & A
What is considered normal blood pressure?
Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. While it is possible to have blood pressure that’s too low, it’s not usually as common as high blood pressure, which is damaging to your heart. Dr. Eades may tell you that you have prehypertension if he sees your blood pressure continually go over 120/80 mmHg.
You officially have high blood pressure if your numbers stay above 140/90 mmHg. Blood pressure that reaches 180/110 mmHg is considered a medical emergency, and you need to get into the clinic right away.
Will I know if my blood pressure is high?
Probably not. High blood pressure, or hypertension, often doesn’t cause any specific symptoms. Medical experts often refer to it as a “silent killer” because many men and women are unaware they have hypertension. The only way to know for sure is to check your blood pressure regularly.
Anytime you come into CorCare TX, your nurse checks your blood pressure before you see Dr. Eades. You should also check your blood pressure between visits either at the pharmacy or by using an at-home monitor.
How is high blood pressure treated?
Dr. Eades treats your high blood pressure depending on the severity. All high blood pressure sufferers need to make dietary adjustments and lose weight (if applicable). Part of your treatment includes nutrition counseling. You need to:
- Limit your sodium intake
- Consume more lean meats
- Get more fiber
- Avoid trans fatty acids
- Decrease added sugars
If you’re healthy enough for exercise, Dr. Eades suggests getting more physical activity. Even a minimal 30 minutes per day, on most days of the week, starts bringing your blood pressure down and decreasing your risk of heart disease.
For more severe cases, or if lifestyle changes aren’t working, Dr. Eades can prescribe medications to lower blood pressure. He works with you to determine which medication is best for your needs. Blood pressure-lowering medications can include:
- Diuretics
- Beta blockers
- Alpha blockers
- Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
- Calcium channel blockers
Why is hypertension dangerous?
Hypertension puts added stress on your coronary arteries that deliver oxygen-rich blood to your heart. When your blood pressure is high, your risk of clots and torn arteries increases. If left untreated, you may suffer from:
- Stroke or heart attack
- Vision loss
- Sexual dysfunction
- Kidney failure
- Heart disease
