High blood pressure—also known as hypertension—is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting adults today. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of adults in the United States have high blood pressure, and many don’t even know it. Left unmanaged, hypertension can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and more.
At Health Specialists of Central Florida, we believe in empowering our patients with accurate, clear, and actionable information. In this guide, we answer the most frequently asked questions about high blood pressure, from what causes it to how it’s treated, and what steps you can take to protect your long-term health.
What Is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure occurs when the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number): Measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number): Measures the pressure when your heart is resting between beats.
A normal blood pressure reading is typically less than 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when readings consistently exceed 130/80 mm Hg, based on guidelines from the American Heart Association.
Why Is High Blood Pressure Dangerous?
Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms until significant damage has already occurred. Over time, untreated high blood pressure can:
- Damage your arteries and heart
- Increase your risk of heart attack and stroke
- Harm your kidneys and lead to failure
- Contribute to vision loss
- Cause cognitive decline or dementia
That’s why routine screenings and early management are essential, even if you feel fine.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure can result from a combination of lifestyle factors, genetics, and underlying health conditions. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Poor diet, especially high in sodium or processed foods
- Obesity or being overweight
- Lack of physical activity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Chronic stress
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Family history of hypertension
- Age, particularly over 50
- Underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease
In some cases, high blood pressure is classified as primary hypertension, which develops gradually over time without a clear cause. In others, it is secondary hypertension, caused by another medical condition or medication.
How Is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed?
Diagnosing hypertension is relatively straightforward but requires accuracy and consistency. Blood pressure may be measured:
- In a clinical setting (doctor’s office)
- With home blood pressure monitors
- Over a 24-hour period using ambulatory monitoring
Multiple high readings on different days are usually needed for a confirmed diagnosis. Your doctor may also order lab tests to evaluate organ function and check for contributing health issues.
What Are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?
Most people with high blood pressure experience no noticeable symptoms. However, in rare or extreme cases, you may experience:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Blurred vision
If any of these symptoms occur suddenly or severely, they may indicate a hypertensive crisis or another medical emergency and should be evaluated immediately.
How Can High Blood Pressure Be Managed or Treated?
Treatment for hypertension depends on how high your blood pressure is and your overall health profile. Your care plan may include lifestyle changes, medication, or both.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle modification is the first and most effective strategy for managing high blood pressure. This includes:
- Improving your diet
- Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains
- Reduce salt intake to less than 1,500–2,300 mg per day
- Limit saturated fats and added sugars
- Exercising regularly
- Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity (like walking or biking) on most days
- Managing stress
- Use mindfulness, deep breathing, or therapy to reduce anxiety and tension
- Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol
- Quit smoking completely and limit alcohol to 1 drink per day for women or 2 for men
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Even modest weight loss (5–10% of body weight) can significantly lower blood pressure
Medication
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, or if your blood pressure is significantly elevated, your provider may prescribe medications. These may include:
- Diuretics
- ACE inhibitors
- Beta blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
Often, a combination of medications is required to reach and maintain healthy levels. Your provider will work closely with you to monitor side effects and adjust dosages as needed.
Can High Blood Pressure Be Cured?
While high blood pressure cannot usually be “cured,” it can absolutely be controlled. With the right combination of lifestyle changes and medical care, many patients are able to reach safe blood pressure levels and avoid complications. In some cases, especially when caught early, patients are even able to reduce or discontinue medications under medical supervision.
The key is consistency—managing hypertension is a lifelong commitment.
Why Is Regular Follow-Up Important?
Even after your blood pressure is stabilized, ongoing monitoring is essential. High blood pressure can fluctuate, and changes in diet, stress, or other medications can impact your numbers.
At Health Specialists of Central Florida, we schedule routine check-ins to ensure your treatment plan remains effective. Regular follow-up allows us to:
- Track your progress
- Make timely adjustments to medications
- Screen for complications
- Provide support and education
This partnership helps you stay in control of your health.
How Can Health Specialists of Central Florida Help?
At our clinic, we take a comprehensive, personalized approach to managing high blood pressure. Our care includes:
- Routine screenings and diagnostic testing
- Individualized lifestyle coaching and nutrition counseling
- Medication management and prescription support
- Coordination with specialists if needed (cardiology, nephrology, etc.)
- Ongoing education and wellness planning
We view each patient as a whole person—not just a set of numbers. Our mission is to help you thrive, not just survive.
When Should You Get Your Blood Pressure Checked?
Adults should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year, even if they feel healthy. More frequent monitoring is recommended for those:
- Over age 40
- With a family history of hypertension
- With a history of pre-hypertension (120–129 / <80)
- Living with diabetes, obesity, or other risk factors
Home monitoring can also be a helpful tool, especially for those already diagnosed.
Take Control of Your Health Today
High blood pressure doesn’t have to control your life. With the right knowledge, support, and medical guidance, you can take proactive steps to protect your heart, brain, kidneys, and overall well-being.
If you or a loved one is concerned about high blood pressure, now is the time to act. Early detection and intervention make all the difference.
Contact Us Today
Health Specialists of Central Florida
1120 S Park Ave, Apopka FL, 32703
(321) 251-2240
Reach out today to schedule your blood pressure screening or consultation. We’re here to support you—every step of the way.