Understanding Blood Pressure: The Silent Killer and How to Stay Ahead

By:Lori Tayler
on Aug 21, 2024

Blood pressure is one of the most crucial indicators of your cardiovascular health, yet it’s often overlooked until it’s too late. At Louisiana Cardiovascular & Thoracic Institute and Diabetes Relief of Louisiana, we’re dedicated to helping you understand the importance of monitoring your blood pressure and taking action to protect your heart.

Why is Blood Pressure Monitoring So Important?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, has earned the nickname “THE SILENT KILLER” for a reason. Most people with high blood pressure don’t experience obvious symptoms, which means the condition can quietly cause significant damage to your body over time. The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to measure it regularly. Understanding your blood
pressure readings is key to taking charge of your heart health.

Breaking Down Blood Pressure Numbers

Blood pressure is recorded with two numbers and is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg):

  • Systolic Pressure (Top Number): This number indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. It shows how much pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls when the heart pumps.
  • Diastolic Pressure (Bottom Number): This number measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is resting between beats. It reflects the resistance to the blood flow in the blood vessels.

Here’s a simple chart to help you understand what your blood pressure readings mean:

Blood Pressure Chart

The Risks of High Blood Pressure

If left unchecked, high blood pressure can lead to severe health complications, including:

  • Heart Attack: High blood pressure damages arteries, making them more vulnerable to the buildup of plaque, which can block blood flow to the heart.
  • Stroke: High blood pressure can cause blood vessels in the brain to burst or clog more easily, leading to a stroke.
  • Heart Failure: The heart has to work harder to pump blood, which can weaken it over time, leading to heart failure.
  • Kidney Disease: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys, affecting their ability to filter waste from your blood.
  • Vision Loss: Hypertension can damage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems or blindness.
  • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): High blood pressure can narrow arteries in the legs, arms, stomach, and head, causing pain and cramping.

How Remote Patient Monitoring Can Help?

At Louisiana Cardiovascular & Thoracic Institute and Diabetes Relief of Louisiana, we understand the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring, which is why we offer remote patient monitoring services. This program allows you to track your blood pressure from the comfort of your home, giving you and your healthcare provider real-time data to keep your heart
health in check.
With remote patient monitoring, you don’t have to wait for your next doctor’s visit to know how your heart is doing. Our team is here to provide guidance, support, and peace of mind, helping you take proactive steps to maintain a healthy blood pressure and prevent serious complications.

Take Control of Your Heart Health Today!

Don’t let high blood pressure go unnoticed. By understanding your blood pressure readings and regularly monitoring them, you can stay ahead of this silent killer and protect your heart for years to come. Contact us today at 318-442-0106 to learn more about our REMOTE PATIENT MONITORING PROGRAM and how we can help you live a healthier life.

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