At Grand Forks Clinic, we understand the importance of managing hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is committed to providing comprehensive and personalized care to help you effectively manage your hypertension and reduce your risk of complications.
Hypertension is a condition characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure levels. Having high blood pressure increases the risk of developing health issues, such as heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
The team at Grand Forks Clinic uses a personalized approach and comprehensive care to empower you in managing your blood pressure and achieving a healthier lifestyle. We are dedicated to supporting you in taking control of your blood pressure and improving your overall well-being.
Hypertension is a chronic condition. It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it may not cause discernible symptoms. However, it can lead to serious health problems if left unchecked.
High blood pressure can put a strain on the heart, blood vessels, and other organs, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other complications. This is because high blood pressure means the pressure exerted on your blood vessels stays consistently high. This puts extra strain on the heart to pump blood throughout the body, weakening it over time.
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and is represented by two numbers: the systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart contracts) and the diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats).
Blood pressure readings that are consistently at or above 130/80 mm Hg indicate a hypertension diagnosis. In cases where blood pressure readings surpass 180/120 mm Hg, it is considered a hypertensive emergency or crisis. If you or someone you know experiences these extremely high blood pressure numbers, immediate medical assistance should be sought.
Managing hypertension is vital to leading a healthier life, and our dedicated team is here to provide personalized care and guidance every step of the way.
At Grand Forks Clinic, we offer a range of tests to help identify the underlying causes of high blood pressure and monitor your overall health. If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, your healthcare provider may recommend the following tests:
This longer-duration test, known as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, allows for regular blood pressure measurements over a period of 6 to 24 hours. It provides valuable insights into your blood pressure patterns throughout the day.
The availability of the devices used for this test may vary among medical centers, so discuss your options with our staff to find the best option for you.
Blood and urine tests are conducted to evaluate conditions that may contribute to or exacerbate high blood pressure. These tests assess factors such as cholesterol and blood sugar levels and can also evaluate kidney, liver, and thyroid function.
The echocardiogram is a non-invasive examination that uses sound waves to create detailed images of your pumping heart. It provides valuable information about blood flow through the heart and the functioning of heart valves.
At Grand Forks Clinic, we take a multidisciplinary approach to hypertension management, combining medical expertise, advanced technology, and patient-centered care.
Our goal is to help you keep your blood pressure under check and improve your overall cardiovascular health.
Here's what you can expect from our hypertension management services:
Our experienced healthcare providers will conduct a thorough evaluation to assess your blood pressure levels, overall health, and any underlying conditions contributing to hypertension.
We may also perform additional tests, such as blood work and diagnostic imaging, to gather comprehensive information about the state of your health.
Based on your evaluation results, our team will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
This may include lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes, regular exercise, stress management techniques, and weight management. We may also prescribe medication to help lower and control your blood pressure.
Hypertension management is a long-term commitment, and we are here to support you every step of the way. As part of our ongoing support to help you manage your condition, our healthcare professionals will:
We will also provide education on self-care strategies, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications to empower you to take control of your health.
Our team works collaboratively with specialists like cardiologists, endocrinologists, and nephrologists to provide comprehensive care for patients with complex or resistant hypertension. We believe in a team-based approach to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
To effectively manage your blood pressure, your healthcare provider may recommend regular blood pressure monitoring at home. Home monitoring enables you to track your blood pressure between clinic visits, helping your healthcare team assess the effectiveness of your treatment and identify any worsening of your condition.
When monitoring your blood pressure at home, the American Heart Association recommends using a monitor with a cuff that wraps around your upper arm for the most reliable measurements. Home blood pressure monitors can be easily obtained from local stores and pharmacies.
Please note that devices measuring blood pressure at the wrist or finger are not recommended by the American Heart Association since they may not always provide the most accurate results.
By combining our comprehensive care with diagnostic tests and home blood pressure monitoring, we strive to empower you to take control of your hypertension condition.
At Grand Forks Clinic, we understand the importance of managing hypertension and maintaining optimal blood pressure levels. Our dedicated team of experts is committed to providing comprehensive care and empowering you to take control of your health.
Take the first step towards effective hypertension management by scheduling a consultation with us today. Call us at (701) 775-5800 or request an appointment online.
Grand Forks Clinic
5750 S Washington St
Grand Forks, ND 58201
