What is Hypertension?
Hypertension, often referred to as high blood pressure, can affect the body in many ways. Hypertension can lead to an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, or other severe diseases without necessarily alerting you to a problem.
At CHAS Health, we offer visits with our care team to manage chronic conditions such as hypertension. A care team consists of providers, clinical pharmacists, dietitians, nurses, and medical assistants.
Patients can stop by any time for a blood pressure check with one of our medical assistants.
Do You Have High Blood Pressure?
Here’s a self-check guide to make sure you’re doing all you can to be well. For most people, it’s 140/90, but work with your providers and check out the High Blood Pressure Rainbow Chart below. Know your blood pressure goal.
Measure your blood pressure at home. Elevated blood pressure usually does not give symptoms, so knowing your blood pressure at home and in the clinic can help make sure you’re at goal.
Visit your provider for blood pressure checks at least twice yearly. Target 150 minutes per week of heart-healthy activity such as walking or exercising. Eat heart-healthy foods such as fruits and veggies, low in red meat and salt. Check out how you can improve your blood pressure.
How to Remember to Take Your Medication
If you take medications for blood pressure, take them consistently. You can use several methods to help you remember.
The American Association of Heart Failure Nurses has some helpful tips on remembering to take your pills.
What to expect with Hypertension
If you have high blood pressure requiring medication, you will need to schedule visits twice a year to check your blood pressure. These visits help you avoid other system damage from high blood pressure, such as kidney problems or heart disease, which could lead to heart attacks and strokes.
These visits may be with your primary care provider or another healthcare team member, including refilling your prescription by a clinical pharmacist.
How to Reach Your Care Team
Make an appointment for blood pressure management with your primary care provider, clinical pharmacist, or the care team nurse at your clinic.
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