Indicating Hypertension
Hypertension is one of the simplest conditions of the blood vessels to diagnose. In the majority of instances, patients are diagnosed unintentionally during routine checkups or consultations for other diseases. Rarely is hypertension diagnosed with a single reading. The most accurate method for diagnosing hypertension in an individual is to take blood pressure readings on two separate occasions, at least four hours apart. If both measurements exceed 140/90 mmHg, you will be diagnosed with hypertension.
In certain ambiguous situations, your physician may request additional readings over the course of a few days in order to make a definitive diagnosis. Borderline readings require a deeper evaluation for a persistent underlying problem. Certain environmental factors, including a high-sodium diet, stress, and “white-coat” hypertension, can impede the diagnosis of high blood pressure.
If you consistently have high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend additional laboratory tests to determine the underlying cause. Common clinical procedures include a cholesterol screening, urine test, electrocardiogram, and kidney and heart ultrasound. These tests are crucial for ruling out any secondary health conditions that could be causing high blood pressure. If you are diagnosed with a condition during your annual physical or as a result of screening, your doctor may initiate treatment to control the condition and prevent health complications.
?){kind=link}