Half of adults in the U.S. have hypertension, or high blood pressure. Dr. Raghu Tadikamalla, a cardiologist and certified specialist in clinical hypertension at Allegheny Health Network, says we can do more to bring that number down.
What are current recommendations around blood pressure?
Hypertension is any number above 130/80, but ideally we want that top number under 120. High blood pressure rarely has symptoms, so for younger people with no risk factors, we recommend having it checked once a year. People at higher risk should have it checked more frequently.
What are the risk factors and causes of high blood pressure?
Most hypertension in this country is what I call “lifestyle hypertension,” because it is so associated with lack of physical activity, diets high in salt and processed foods, and being overweight. Other risk factors include family history, advanced age, smoking, and drinking too much. Whether from obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, lifestyle factors, or even shift work, disturbances in sleep can also raise your risk. And certain medicines can contribute to hypertension, including commonly used pain relievers with ibuprofen and naproxen.
What is the best way to prevent high blood pressure or bring it down without medication?
Diet is key. That’s why the AHN Comprehensive Hypertension Center includes dieticians who help with everything from eating patterns to paying attention to labels. Sodium is hidden everywhere, so you really need to check labels. I had a patient who had been eating a lot of cottage cheese to stay healthy, but cottage cheese is loaded with sodium, so his blood pressure wasn’t coming down.
What stands out about the AHN Comprehensive Hypertension Center?
Many patients who come to our center are dealing with resistant hypertension that requires a high number of meds, or they have medication intolerances. There are many medication options, and we have more experience, especially with some that are less commonly used. We also have more experience with the subtleties of diagnosing and treating different patient profiles. Our AHA Comprehensive Hypertension Center certification indicates high standards for technical capabilities, research, and providing comprehensive care.
Half the nation has high blood pressure. What will it take to improve that?
Patients and clinicians alike need to take the numbers seriously and be aggressive. That doesn’t necessarily mean treating everyone right away with medication, but it does mean quicker follow-ups, frequent monitoring if there’s a problem, more focus on lifestyle modifications, and taking action with medicines when necessary. On the positive side, I emphasize that studies show there can be amazing improvement in blood pressure, cholesterol, and longevity even just from losing 5% of your extra weight. Small, consistent changes can make an enormous difference.
To read a longer version of this interview, please visit the Highmark Health Digital Magazine.