Hypertension

Effective Hypertension Treatment at Elora Health and Wellness

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening health problems like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease. At Elora Health and Wellness in Rockville Centre, NY, Dr. Shakiraye Rookwood, DNP, FNP-BC, offers comprehensive screening, diagnosis, and treatment for hypertension in patients aged 14 and older. We take a holistic approach to managing high blood pressure, ensuring you receive the personalized care you need to improve your health and quality of life.

What Is Hypertension?

Hypertension occurs when the force of the blood against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high, causing your heart to work harder to pump blood. This condition often goes unnoticed because it rarely causes any obvious symptoms, which is why regular blood pressure screenings are essential. Left untreated, hypertension can lead to severe complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. At Elora Health and Wellness, we recommend that all adults have their blood pressure checked at least once a year.

Types of Hypertension

There are two primary types of hypertension that Dr. Rookwood treats:

• Primary Hypertension: This is the most common type, and it develops gradually over many years. It is typically linked to aging and lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress. As plaque builds up in your arteries over time, your heart has to work harder to pump blood, raising your blood pressure.

• Secondary Hypertension: This type is caused by an underlying health condition and tends to develop suddenly. It is often more severe than primary hypertension. Conditions like sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, kidney disease, and adrenal gland tumors are common causes of secondary hypertension.

Who Is at Risk for Hypertension?

While anyone can develop high blood pressure, certain factors increase your risk:

• Age: Hypertension is more common in people over the age of 40.

• Family history: If hypertension runs in your family, you may be at higher risk.

• Lifestyle factors: Stress, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity can all contribute to high blood pressure.

• Excess weight: Being overweight or obese can strain your heart and lead to hypertension.

• Certain medical conditions: Diabetes, kidney disease, and thyroid issues can also increase your risk of developing high blood pressure.

How Is Hypertension Diagnosed?

Diagnosing hypertension starts with a comprehensive assessment at Elora Health and Wellness. Dr. Rookwood will review your medical history and ask about lifestyle factors such as exercise, diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption. She will also listen to your heart and take your blood pressure using a digital sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff).

Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (top number): This measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.

• Diastolic pressure (bottom number): This measures the pressure in your arteries between heartbeats when your heart is at rest.

Hypertension is diagnosed if your blood pressure reading is consistently 130/80 mm/Hg or higher on two separate tests.

How Is Hypertension Treated?

At Elora Health and Wellness, Dr. Rookwood adopts a holistic approach to managing hypertension. We focus on lifestyle changes that can significantly lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health:

• Regular exercise: Engaging in physical activity can help reduce blood pressure by strengthening your heart and improving circulation.

• Improved nutrition: A balanced diet low in sodium and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is essential for managing hypertension.

• Quitting smoking: Smoking can raise your blood pressure and damage blood vessels, so quitting is an important step toward better health.

• Routine screenings: Regular blood pressure checkups help track your progress and ensure your treatment plan is working.

In some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough. If necessary, Dr. Rookwood can prescribe medications to help control your blood pressure. These may include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or calcium channel blockers, depending on your individual needs.

Book Your Hypertension Screening Today

If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or haven’t had it checked recently, it’s time to schedule a screening at Elora Health and Wellness. Early detection and treatment of hypertension can reduce your risk of serious health problems. Dr. Rookwood is here to guide you through the process and provide personalized care to help you manage your hypertension.

Call us today at 1-516-682-2350 to request an appointment, or book online for your convenience. Take control of your health today with Elora Health and Wellness.