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Living With High Blood Pressure (hypertension)
Dr. Chimezie C. Amanambu, M.D • Feb 22, 2022
Living With High Blood Pressure (hypertension)
“Your health is at the end of the fork”
Your blood pressure is an important part of your health. Adequate blood pressure is essential to supplying nutrients and oxygen to our organs and maintaining optimal body function, but excessive blood pressure levels can damage those same organs and deteriorate body functions.
The definition of “normal blood pressure” has changed over the years based on newer knowledge and understanding of human function.
In 2017, the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology revised the hypertension guidelines. The current definitions are:
- Normal: less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: Systolic blood pressure between 120-129 and Diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.
- Stage 1 hypertension: Systolic between 130-139 mm Hg or Diastolic between 80-89 mm Hg.
- Stage 2 hypertension: Systolic at least 140 mm hg or diastolic at least 90 mm Hg.
- Hypertensive crisis: systolic over 180 and/or diastolic over 120, with patients needing prompt changes in medication if there are no other indications of problems, or immediate hospitalization if there are signs of organ damage.
There are a lot of things you can do to prevent the development of high blood pressure or treat high blood if you have developed it. It is important to remember that the doctor’s prescriptions are secondary to your own actions.
“You have ownership over your health and outcomes”.
There are many lifestyle modifications that you can make to take control of and improve your blood pressure. These include:
- Changing your diet to include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products with reduced saturated and total fat.
- Increasing physical activity to 90 to 150 minutes each week of aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercises include things like walking, jogging, running, dancing. Also, include three days of strength training each week. Using 5 to 10 lb weights is sufficient. Not only do these help control your blood pressure, but they also help with weight management. In overweight individuals, a weight loss of even five to 10 percent has been shown to reduce blood pressure.
- Decrease your sodium to no more than 1500 milligrams each day. Less is even better. Experiment with spices instead of adding salt to your food. It is best to avoid canned foods as they are loaded with salt.
- Limit alcohol intake. It is recommended that men have no more than two drinks per day and women have no more than one to help control blood pressure.
- Manage your stress. This is easier said than done but is an especially important component of blood pressure control. It is important to have effective coping techniques because stress has adverse effects on our bodies.
- Quitting smoking can have a huge impact on your overall health and blood pressure control.
https://www.lifespan.org/lifespan-living/do-you-have-high-blood-pressure-what-new-guidelines-say
In the bustling streets of Akron and in our surrounding region, commercial drivers play a crucial role in keeping our economy moving. However, the safety of these drivers and the public depends significantly on their physical, mental, and emotional fitness. Recognizing this, Dr. Chimezie Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates offer comprehensive Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examinations, adhering to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements to ensure that commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers are in peak condition to navigate the roads safely. Who Needs a DOT Physical? If you're behind the wheel of a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people, are compensated to drive a vehicle carrying more than 8 passengers, transport hazardous materials requiring a placard, or operate a vehicle weighing over 10,000 pounds on interstate highways, a DOT physical is mandatory for you. This examination is a prerequisite to obtaining your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC), a vital document that, along with your commercial driver’s license (CDL), legitimizes your status as a commercial driver for up to two years. The DOT Physical Process Dr. Amanambu's approach to the DOT physical is thorough and patient-centric, ensuring not just compliance with regulations but also prioritizing the driver's health and well-being. The examination encompasses a detailed review of the driver's medical history, including any surgeries, medications, and health conditions. A hands-on physical assessment follows, evaluating various health aspects from vision and hearing to cardiovascular health and neurological function. A urinalysis is also conducted to screen for underlying medical issues such as diabetes and kidney disease. Preparing for Your Examination To streamline your visit, Dr. Amanambu recommends coming prepared with a list of your medications, doctors' contact information, and any necessary corrective devices like glasses or hearing aids. For drivers managing conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea, bringing recent health records and treatment compliance reports can facilitate a smoother evaluation process. Navigating Health Conditions Certain health issues may necessitate more frequent examinations. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease might require annual reviews, while others, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, could lead to quarterly assessments. Dr. Amanambu's expertise ensures that drivers receive the guidance needed to manage their conditions effectively, aiming for optimal health and safety on the road. Dr. Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates stand at the forefront of ensuring the safety and health of Akron's commercial drivers through meticulous DOT physical examinations. Our commitment to thorough assessments and personalized care helps drivers meet regulatory requirements while fostering a safer driving environment for everyone. If you're a commercial driver, don't wait until the last minute to renew your certification. Book an appointment with Dr. Amanambu today and take the first step towards securing your health and livelihood on the road.
In the journey towards maintaining optimal health, understanding the right time to seek medical attention is crucial. Dr. Chimezie Amanambu, our distinguished internal medicine doctor at Pax Internal Medicine Associates, emphasizes the importance of not delaying care for health concerns. Early intervention can be the key to preventing manageable conditions from becoming serious health issues. Recognizing the Signs Many people wonder when it's necessary to consult an internal medicine doctor. Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, chronic pain, or fluctuations in blood pressure and blood sugar levels are clear indicators that it's time to see a specialist. Dr. Amanambu advises that listening to your body's signals is the first step towards taking control of your health. The Role of Preventive Care Preventive care is a cornerstone of internal medicine. Regular check-ups with Dr. Amanambu can identify risk factors and early signs of diseases before they develop into more significant problems. These visits are not just about screening for diseases; they're an opportunity to discuss lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, and exercise that can improve your overall well-being. Why Waiting Can Be Costly Delaying medical consultation can lead to conditions worsening or the emergence of complications, making treatment more difficult and recovery longer. Dr. Amanambu stresses that early diagnosis and treatment often result in better health outcomes and can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications. His approach combines cutting-edge medical knowledge with compassionate care, ensuring patients receive the most effective and timely interventions. Personalized Care at Pax Internal Medicine Associates At Pax Internal Medicine Associates, Dr. Amanambu tailors his approach to each patient's unique needs. Understanding that every individual's health journey is different, he provides personalized care plans designed to address specific health concerns and promote long-term health. His expertise in internal medicine allows him to manage a wide range of conditions, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care under one roof. Waiting to seek medical attention can be a gamble with your health—one that's not worth taking. If you're experiencing health issues or if it's simply time for your annual check-up, consulting with Dr. Amanambu is a step in the right direction. His expertise in internal medicine, combined with a proactive approach to healthcare, makes him an invaluable ally in your quest for a healthier life. Remember, in healthcare, timing is everything, and early intervention is often the key to a successful outcome. Take the time today to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Amanambu.