High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common yet serious condition that affects millions of Canadians. At Brampton Internal Medicine, our internists work closely with patients to manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

What is High Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. When this pressure stays elevated over time, it puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels.

A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is generally diagnosed when readings consistently exceed 130/80 mmHg.

Risk Factors for High Blood Pressure

Several factors may contribute to hypertension, including:

• Family history of high blood pressure

• Being overweight or obese

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Excess salt or alcohol intake

• Smoking

• Chronic stress

• Certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease)

Tips to Lower and Manage Blood Pressure

As internists, we take a comprehensive approach to managing hypertension. Here are some expert-backed strategies:

1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet

• Choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins

• Limit sodium intake (aim for <2,300 mg/day)

• Avoid processed foods and sugary beverages

2. Exercise Regularly

• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week (e.g., brisk walking, swimming, cycling)

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

• Even modest weight loss can significantly lower blood pressure

4. Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home

• Keep track of your readings and share them with your doctor

5. Take Medications as Prescribed

• If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your internist may prescribe blood pressure-lowering medications

6. Reduce Stress

• Try mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to manage stress levels

7. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking

• These changes can greatly improve overall cardiovascular health

When to See an Internist

If you’ve been diagnosed with hypertension or have risk factors, it’s important to work with an internal medicine specialist to develop a personalized treatment plan. Regular follow-ups and lab work help monitor your progress and prevent complications.