What is Hypertension (BP)? Understanding High Blood Pressure
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure (BP), is a chronic medical condition where the blood pressure in the arteries remains persistently elevated. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure (when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (when the heart rests between beats).
According to medical standards:
- Normal BP: Less than 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated BP: 120-129/less than 80 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 2: 140/90 mmHg or higher
At Brundavan Hospital, recognized as the best BP hospital in Kakinada, our cardiology department specializes in comprehensive hypertension management through evidence-based treatment protocols.
Causes and Risk Factors of Hypertension
Hypertension develops due to various factors:
Primary (Essential) Hypertension Causes:
- Genetic predisposition
- Excessive salt intake
- Chronic stress
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
- Alcohol and tobacco use
Secondary Hypertension Causes:
- Kidney disease
- Endocrine disorders
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Certain medications
Dr. Srinivas Bikkina, the best BP treatment doctor in Kakinada, emphasizes that early identification of these risk factors can prevent serious complications through timely intervention.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it frequently shows no obvious symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Some patients may experience:
- Persistent headaches
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Blurred vision
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain (in severe cases)
- Nosebleeds (rare)
Brundavan Hospital's general physicians in Kakinada recommend regular blood pressure screenings, especially for adults over 40, to detect hypertension in its early stages.
Potential Complications of Untreated Hypertension
Chronic uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to severe health consequences:
Cardiovascular Complications:
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Left ventricular hypertrophy
- Coronary artery disease
Cerebrovascular Complications:
- Stroke
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
- Vascular dementia
Other Organ Damage:
- Chronic kidney disease
- Retinopathy (eye damage)
- Peripheral artery disease
- Sexual dysfunction
The hypertension specialists at Brundavan Hospital, Kakinada's premier BP treatment center, stress the importance of proper management to prevent these life-threatening complications.
Diagnosing Hypertension
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective hypertension management. The process at Brundavan Hospital includes:
Blood Pressure Measurement:
- Multiple readings over different visits
- Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (24-hour test)
- Home blood pressure monitoring
Diagnostic Tests:
- Blood tests (kidney function, electrolytes, glucose, cholesterol)
- Urinalysis
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Echocardiogram (in some cases)
Dr. Srinivas Bikkina, a renowned general physician in Kakinada, follows a comprehensive diagnostic approach to identify the root cause of each patient's hypertension.
Hypertension Treatment Approaches
Brundavan Hospital offers personalized hypertension treatment plans combining lifestyle modifications and medical therapy:
Lifestyle Modifications:
- DASH diet: Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension
- Sodium restriction: Less than 2,300 mg/day (ideal 1,500 mg)
- Regular exercise: 150 minutes moderate activity weekly
- Weight management: BMI under 25 recommended
- Stress reduction: Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises
- Smoking cessation and alcohol moderation
Medication Therapy:
The best BP treatment doctor in Kakinada, Dr. Srinivas Bikkina, may prescribe one or more of these antihypertensive medications based on individual needs:
- Diuretics (water pills)
- ACE inhibitors
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Calcium channel blockers
- Beta-blockers
- Alpha-blockers
Specialized Treatments:
For resistant hypertension cases, Brundavan Hospital provides:
- Renal denervation therapy evaluation
- Secondary cause investigation protocols
- Intensive monitoring programs
Preventing Hypertension
The cardiology team at Brundavan Hospital, the best BP hospital in Kakinada, recommends these preventive measures:
- Maintain healthy weight (BMI 18.5-24.9)
- Consume potassium-rich foods (bananas, spinach, sweet potatoes)
- Limit processed foods high in sodium
- Engage in aerobic exercise 30 minutes daily
- Practice stress management techniques
- Limit alcohol to 1 drink/day (women) or 2 drinks/day (men)
- Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep nightly
Why Choose Brundavan Hospital for BP Treatment in Kakinada?
Brundavan Hospital has established itself as the leading hypertension treatment center in Kakinada due to:
- Comprehensive hypertension management program
- State-of-the-art diagnostic facilities
- Personalized treatment plans
- Multidisciplinary approach involving cardiologists, nephrologists, and dietitians
- Regular patient education programs
- Long-term follow-up and monitoring systems
Under the guidance of Dr. Srinivas Bikkina, recognized as the best BP treatment doctor in Kakinada, our team provides evidence-based care tailored to each patient's unique health profile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hypertension
Can hypertension be cured completely?
While primary hypertension cannot typically be cured, it can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes and medication. Secondary hypertension may be cured if the underlying cause is treated.
How often should I check my blood pressure?
Healthy adults should check at least annually. Those with elevated BP or risk factors should monitor more frequently as advised by their physician at Brundavan Hospital.
Are home blood pressure monitors accurate?
Quality home monitors are generally accurate when used correctly. Our general physicians in Kakinada can recommend validated devices and proper measurement techniques.
Can young people get hypertension?
Yes, while more common in older adults, hypertension can affect people of all ages due to lifestyle factors or underlying medical conditions.
What's the relationship between salt and high blood pressure?
Excess sodium causes fluid retention, increasing blood volume and pressure. Reducing sodium intake is a key dietary modification for hypertension management.
Comprehensive Hypertension Care at Kakinada's Premier BP Treatment Center
Hypertension requires careful, ongoing management to prevent serious health consequences. Brundavan Hospital, recognized as the best BP hospital in Kakinada, offers complete hypertension care under the expert guidance of Dr. Srinivas Bikkina and our team of skilled general physicians and cardiologists.
From accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment plans and long-term management strategies, we provide comprehensive services to help patients achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Our patient-centered approach combines medical excellence with compassionate care, making us the preferred choice for hypertension treatment in the Kakinada region.
Remember, early detection and proper management of high blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious complications. Regular check-ups and adherence to treatment recommendations are essential for maintaining cardiovascular health.