Hypertension Specialist
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Grayhawk Medical Group, PLLC
Family Practice & Family Medicine located in Scottsdale, AZ
At Grayhawk Medical Group, PLLC, the doctor and staff can effectively treat many everyday health issues, including Hypertension and other types of heart disease. At the facility, Dr. Michael Nunez proudly serves the residents of Scottsdale and Greater Phoenix area as well as many nearby communities.
Hypertension Q & A
Can Diet be Used to Control Hypertension?
A person's diet has a very profound effect on their blood pressure as well as many other health conditions that involve the heart. For the blood to circulate efficiency, it must have minimal amounts of fat and cholesterol. Fats and cholesterol enter the body through a person's diet. If a person is diagnosed with hypertension, one of the first things that should be done is a complete dietary evaluation. It is important to know what the patient eats. Once their diet has been evaluated, the process of eliminating foods that are high in saturated fats and cholesterol begins. Eliminating these foods and replacing them with healthy options that are full of fiber and HDL forms of cholesterol will help lower blood pressure numbers.
What Causes Hypertension?
Hypertension is often caused by a thickening of the blood and the blood vessel walls, which cause the heart to work harder to ensure the blood circulates through the body. Fats and cholesterol come from the foods a person eats. Limiting fried foods that are high in fat and cholesterol and replacing them with baked or steamed versions that are not laden with oils and fats is a good start. If a person has had hypertension for several years, the blood vessels leading to and from the heart may begin to harden or fill with plaque. This can also lead to higher than normal blood pressure readings because the blood vessels are no longer flexible enough to do their part as the blood flows through them.
How is Hypertension Treated?
Hypertension is treated in several different ways. The first way is to alter the diet, limiting fatty foods and including more high fiber foods. Medications can be prescribed that thin the blood, making it easier for the heart to pump it through the arteries and veins. Prescribing a fiber supplement will help to lower cholesterol in the blood stream and also improve the digestion process, allowing for better nutrient absorption. The doctor may also recommend specific lifestyle changes as well. This can include physical therapy or helping the patient get started on a regular exercise program that strengthens the heart and circulatory system.
