Managing High Blood Pressure: A Primary Care Guide

High blood pressure — also known as hypertension — is one of the most common and consequential chronic health conditions in the United States. It affects approximately 1 in 3 adults, and nearly half of those affected do not have it under adequate control.

What makes hypertension particularly dangerous is that it rarely causes symptoms — even when blood pressure is dangerously elevated. It is often called the "silent killer" for this reason. Left unmanaged, high blood pressure causes damage to the heart, kidneys, brain, and blood vessels over time.

Understanding Your Blood Pressure Numbers

Blood pressure is measured as two numbers — systolic (the pressure when your heart beats) over diastolic (the pressure between beats). Categories based on these readings include:

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
• Elevated: 120–129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic
• Stage 1 Hypertension: 130–139 systolic or 80–89 diastolic
• Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 mmHg or higher
• Hypertensive Crisis: 180/120 mmHg or higher — seek immediate medical attention

Why High Blood Pressure Is Dangerous

Left uncontrolled, hypertension significantly increases the risk of:

• Heart attack and heart failure
• Stroke
• Chronic kidney disease
• Vision loss
• Peripheral artery disease
• Cognitive decline

Lifestyle Modifications That Help

For many patients with Stage 1 hypertension or elevated blood pressure, lifestyle modifications can produce meaningful reductions:

• Reduce sodium intake (aim for less than 2,300 mg per day)
• Increase consumption of potassium-rich foods such as bananas, leafy greens, and beans
• Engage in regular physical activity — 30 minutes most days
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid tobacco products
• Manage stress through consistent routines, sleep, and relaxation practices

When Medication Is Needed

For many patients, lifestyle modifications alone are insufficient to achieve target blood pressure. Medication is safe, effective, and often essential for preventing long-term complications. Several classes of antihypertensive medications are available, and your provider will work with you to identify the most appropriate option based on your health profile and any other conditions you manage.

Primary Care for Hypertension at Supreme CHS

Blood pressure monitoring and hypertension management are core components of primary care at Supreme Comprehensive Health Services. We work collaboratively with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address lifestyle, medication, and monitoring — and we track your progress over time. If you have not had your blood pressure checked recently, schedule an appointment today.