Hypertension

Bruce P. Lawrence, MD Our Services Hypertension

Bruce Lawrence MD Family Practice & Aesthetics

Physician & Aesthetic Services located in Oakland, CA

Hypertension, which affects roughly 75 million adults in the US, puts undue strain on your heart. Because hypertension can increase your risk of heart disease, Bruce P. Lawrence, MD, offers integrative treatment packages in Oakland, California. Start your path to lower blood pressure and improved heart health by booking an evaluation over the phone today.

Hypertension Q & A

When is my blood pressure considered high?

Blood pressure refers to the force of blood exerted on the walls of your arteries. Usually, your blood can travel unimpeded through the network of blood vessels and arteries inside of the body. Clogged or hardening arteries can cause your blood pressure to increase.

Your blood pressure is considered high if it stays above 130/80 mm Hg — below 120/80 mm Hg is ideal. It mainly concerns if your blood pressure is above 140/90 mm Hg. In either case, you should get started on treatment to improve your readings and protect your heart. 

High blood pressure can damage your arteries and your heart, increasing your risk for heart attacks and strokes.

What causes hypertension?

Hypertension doesn't have a single identifiable cause; rather, several conditions and factors can increase your risk, such as: 

  • Smoking cigarettes
  • Sedentary lifestyle 
  • Obesity or being overweight
  • Family history of high blood pressure
  • Older age — your vessels are less flexible as you get older

In research studies, high blood pressure has even been linked to poor sleep quality or inadequate sleep. No matter what's causing your case of hypertension, though, you can expect high-quality, comprehensive care at the office of Bruce P. Lawrence, MD.

How is hypertension treated?

Dr. Lawrence provides personalized lifestyle coaching to help you learn about proper diet and exercise, which are lifestyle changes you need to make to improve your blood pressure readings. Your hypertension treatment plan may include:

  • Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH diet)
  • Weight loss management 
  • Reducing sodium intake
  • Regular exercise

Dr. Lawrence may also incorporate medications into your hypertension treatment plan. He can prescribe medications to relax blood vessels, decrease force exerted by your heart, or flush away excess sodium and water. 

Because hypertension is devastating for your heart, Dr. Lawrence schedules you for several follow-up visits throughout the year. This allows him to monitor your progress and encourage you to stick to your treatment plan. 

You can get started on personalized hypertension management care at the office of Bruce P. Lawrence, MD. Find out more by calling the office today.