Hypertension and Heart Disease

Hypertension and Heart Disease services offered in Cook County and neighboring counties, Skokie, IL

Hypertension and heart disease are two of the most common chronic diseases in the United States. At Zalwango Health and Wellness Concierge, PC, in Skokie, Illinois, the primary care specialists provide comprehensive health screenings, patient education, referrals, and treatments for hypertension and heart disease. Call the office today or book an appointment online to learn more about how to improve hypertension and heart disease.

Hypertension and Heart Disease Q & A

What are hypertension and heart disease?

Hypertension and heart disease are chronic conditions that affect the cardiovascular system. Each has unique characteristics that can impact your health and diminish your quality of life.

 

Hypertension

Hypertension, commonly called high blood pressure, occurs when the force of blood pumping against your artery walls is consistently too strong. Without chronic disease management, hypertension can weaken your blood vessels, leading to stroke, vision loss, and other complications.

 

Heart disease

Heart disease is a group of conditions that affect the heart muscle and its connecting structures. The most common types of heart disease are coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral artery disease (PAD), and congestive heart failure (CHF).

Both hypertension and heart disease are silent diseases that often progress before they’re diagnosed. Regular physicals and wellness exams can help detect these conditions in their early stages.

 

What are the signs of hypertension and heart disease?

Hypertension rarely causes symptoms unless the condition progresses. Headaches, lightheadedness, and blurred vision are telltale signs of advanced hypertension that you should address immediately. 

Heart disease affects everyone differently. Depending on the type of heart disease you have, you may experience:

  • Heart palpitations
  • Lightheadedness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Slow heartbeat
  • Dizziness
  • Chest pain

Many cardiovascular conditions also affect the blood vessels in your extremities. Weakness or numbness in the arms and legs are signs of poor circulation from heart disease.

 

What causes hypertension and heart disease?

Primary hypertension and heart disease share many of the same risk factors. Lifestyle habits and diet can significantly increase your chances of developing either condition. Common causes of hypertension and heart disease include:

  • A high-sodium, high-fat diet
  • Infrequent exercise
  • Smoking cigarettes
  • A family history
  • Excess weight

Hypertension is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease. The condition forces the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. Early intervention can help minimize the symptoms of both conditions.

 

What are the treatments for hypertension and heart disease?

The team at Zalwango Health and Wellness Concierge, PC, follows a whole-body approach to hypertension and heart disease treatment. They may recommend:

  • Blood pressure monitoring
  • Heart health screenings
  • Quitting smoking
  • Following a heart-healthy diet
  • Exercising

Your primary care specialist also offers medication management for chronic diseases. They may recommend more than one medication to improve your cardiovascular health.

Call Zalwango Health and Wellness Concierge, PC, today or book an appointment online to learn more about hypertension and heart disease.

 

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