Hypertension Specialist
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Vincent R. C. Maribao, MD
Internal Medicine located in Saint Clair Shores, MI
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is an incredibly common condition affecting more than 3 million Americans each year. Also known as “the silent killer,” hypertension is ultimately treatable so long as you receive a proper diagnosis and make your health a priority. Vincent R. C. Maribao, MD, PC, in Saint Clair Shores, Michigan, takes a holistic look at your health as it relates to hypertension, providing a tailored treatment plan to help you keep your blood pressure under control. Call Dr. Maribao to schedule your consultation or book your appointment online.
Hypertension Q & A
What is hypertension?
When the blood running through your arteries exerts greater force than usual against your arterial walls, damage may occur, particularly over an extended period. This higher than average force is called hypertension, or high blood pressure.
Who gets hypertension?
In most cases, there is no single identifiable cause of hypertension. The condition often develops slowly, quietly, over an extended period. Despite typically lacking an identifiable cause, there are a few risk factors that are thought to increase your risk for developing hypertension:
Age
Hypertension is more common in older individuals.
Weight
Generally, the more you weigh, the more blood your body needs to circulate throughout your body.
Tobacco
The chemicals in tobacco can damage the lining of your arterial walls, and the act of using tobacco also raises your blood pressure.
Race
Hypertension is more common in people with African heritage.
Inactivity
A lack of physical exercise often contributes to higher heart rates.
What are the symptoms of hypertension?
Hypertension earned the name “the silent killer” for a good reason: Most cases of hypertension exhibit no symptoms whatsoever, even late into the condition’s progression. Hypertension can result in several serious complications without treatment, including:
- Heart failure
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Metabolic syndrome
- Aneurysm
- Dementia
- Problems with memory or understanding
How is hypertension treated?
Dr. Maribao believes that the best hypertension treatment is one that touches all parts of your health while fitting into a treatment plan that best works for you. Some of the most common treatments he provides include:
Dietary changes
Eating foods with less salt, more fruits and vegetables, more grains, and lower portions are great ways of cutting calories and gaining a more heart-healthy diet.
Cessation
If you smoke or drink regularly, cutting back on your usage – or stopping entirely – will help control your blood pressure.
Physical activity
Regular exercise is vital for improving heart health and works well when combined with a healthy diet.
Medication
If your hypertension doesn’t respond to lifestyle changes alone, Dr. Maribao may also prescribe medications such as diuretics, beta-blockers, or other treatments that help control blood pressure.
While there is no single cure for hypertension, a holistic treatment plan under the watch of a seasoned expert can provide the results you need. Call Dr. Maribao in Saint Clair Shores, Michigan, to schedule your consultation, or book online.
