Blood pressure GP appointments, bulk-billed.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it doesn’t always show noticeable symptoms until it’s too late. However, some people may experience headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, or heart palpitations in cases of very high blood pressure or hypertensive crisis.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Dot.doctor’s online consultation services are available to provide prompt, effective care, ensuring that you get the help you need when you need it.

Causes of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Age: The risk of developing high blood pressure increases as you age.
• Genetics: A family history of high blood pressure can increase your risk.
• Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet, obesity, excessive alcohol, and tobacco use can all contribute to high blood pressure.
• Chronic Conditions: Certain medical conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, and sleep apnea can cause high blood pressure.

It’s also important to note that sometimes high blood pressure occurs without a known cause. This is known as primary (or essential) hypertension.

Diagnosing High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is typically diagnosed by a health professional using a blood pressure monitor. This device measures the amount of pressure in your arteries each time your heart beats (systolic pressure) and when your heart is at rest (diastolic pressure).

According to the Heart Foundation of Australia, normal blood pressure is typically considered around 120/80 mmHg. A reading consistently above 140/90 mmHg on several occasions usually indicates high blood pressure.

At dot.doctor, we offer comprehensive virtual check-ups that include blood pressure monitoring. If needed, we can guide you on how to measure your blood pressure accurately at home.

Treatment Options for High Blood Pressure

Treatment for high blood pressure usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication.

1. Lifestyle changes: These can include eating a healthy diet, limiting salt and alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking.

2. Medications: If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe medication. Several types of drugs are used to treat high blood pressure, including diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. Your treatment will depend on your health history and the severity of your high blood pressure.

Dot.doctor’s online medical professionals can prescribe appropriate medications, manage refills, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to manage your high blood pressure.

Remember, high blood pressure can be managed effectively with regular monitoring, appropriate treatment, and lifestyle changes. If you’re concerned about your blood pressure, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at dot.doctor. As a bulk-billing service, we’re here to provide affordable, high-quality healthcare at your convenience.