If you have high blood pressure, you’ve likely been told that you are at risk of heart failure or disease. Is this true? And if so, why? What exactly is the connection? Dr. Jeremy McConnell at Discover Health in Bradenton, FL, answers these questions and more below. 

Understanding High Blood Pressure and Its Effects on Your Heart

 High blood pressure is more than just a number. It is the force with which the blood is being pumped by your heart and pushing against the walls of your arteries. 

If your blood pressure is high, it means that your heart is having to work too hard to push blood through the arteries to the rest of your body. This typically occurs because plaque builds up on your artery walls, leading to less space for the blood to travel through. 

Over time, the heart thickens and enlarges. Unfortunately, this means it’s still having to work hard to pump blood. And a decrease in blood flow leads to less oxygen and blood reaching the heart, which can cause severe cardiovascular diseases and consequences. 

One is a heart attack, which means that the lack of oxygen is killing the heart. Another is heart failure, which simply means your heart can’t pump enough blood. 

Does Having High Blood Pressure Mean I’ll Develop a Cardiovascular Disease? 

 Not necessarily. Discovering that your blood pressure is high doesn’t automatically mean a diagnosis of cardiovascular disease. Instead, it is a warning that you are at risk and that you can take steps to prevent that risk from becoming a reality by getting your blood pressure under control.

Steps to Prevent High Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Disease

 The most crucial steps are those required to keep anyone healthy, which include the following. 

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet: Reduce or avoid processed meals, excess sodium, and products high in fat. Add in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
• Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, five times per week. 
• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight is directly tied to high blood pressure and heart trouble. 
• Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol: Smoking and excessive drinking can raise your blood pressure. 

Dr. McConnell at Discover Health in Bradenton, FL, are committed to helping patients lower their risk of heart disease through customized weight loss and health coaching. Call (941) 667-2796 to get started on a healthy journey today.