Understanding Hypertension

What You Need to Know (And How Direct Primary Care Can Help)

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting adults in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1 in 2 U.S. adults has hypertension, yet only about 1 in 4 have it under control. When left unmanaged, hypertension can silently increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.

So, with such a high number of people affected, why is hypertension still so often misunderstood or ignored?

Let’s explore the basics of hypertension, how to recognize the risks, and how Direct Primary Care (DPC) can offer a better approach to managing it.

What Is Hypertension? 

In simple terms, blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against artery walls. Over time, if this force remains too high, it can damage your blood vessels and organs. The American Heart Association (AHA), defines normal blood pressure as below 120/80 mm Hg, while hypertension begins when readings consistently exceed 130/80 mm Hg

There are two main types of hypertension: 

• Primary (essential) hypertension develops over time with no identifiable cause. 

• Secondary hypertension, is linked to other medical issues like kidney disease, thyroid conditions, or side effects from medications. 

What Increases Your Risk?

While some risk factors are genetic, many are lifestyle-related. Common contributors include:

• A family history of high blood pressure
• Lack of physical activity
• High-sodium or processed foods
• Smoking or excessive alcohol use
• Stress and poor sleep habits
• Chronic conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or high cholesterol

The good news? Many of these are manageable through early intervention and supportive care—especially with the right provider by your side.

Symptoms: What to Watch For

Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it typically presents no obvious symptoms until significant damage has been done. That’s why routine monitoring is key. 

In rare cases, people with extremely high blood pressure may experience: 

• Headaches 

• Chest pain 

• Abnormal Heart Rhythm / Heart Pounding 

• Shortness of breath 

• Vision Changes / Blurred Vision 

• Nosebleeds 

• Dizziness 

• Confusion 

• Anxiety 

But these signs usually appear only when blood pressure has reached a dangerous level. Regular screenings and check-ins with your provider are essential. 

Diagnosing and Managing Hypertension 

High blood pressure is diagnosed through a simple, non-invasive test using a blood pressure cuff. Once diagnosed, treatment typically includes: 

• Lifestyle changes: A heart-healthy diet (anti-inflammatory/Mediterranean/Wahl’s protocol), regular exercise, stress reduction, limiting sodium and alcohol, and a consistent sleep schedule. 

• Medication: Prescribed when lifestyle changes aren’t enough on their own 

• Ongoing monitoring: Keeping track of your numbers regularly 

Learn more about hypertension diagnosis and care from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 

How Direct Primary Care Helps You Manage Hypertension 

Managing high blood pressure isn’t a one-time appointment, it’s a long-term partnership. That’s where Direct Primary Care (DPC) comes in. 

With DPC, you get: 

• Longer appointments that allow time to talk about lifestyle, medication, and your overall health 

• Unlimited visits and 24/7 access to your provider for questions, medication adjustments, or symptom concerns 

• A relationship with a provider who knows your history and goals 

• Preventive care that catches issues before they become emergencies 

• Chronic condition management without the rush, red tape, or hidden fees 

At Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care, we support our members with personalized care plans that fit their lives, not the other way around. From nutrition guidance to stress management and medication refills, our care team is here to help you take control of your blood pressure and overall health. 

Take the First Step 

High blood pressure can be managed—and even prevented—with the right support. If you haven’t had your blood pressure checked recently, now is the time. And if you’re looking for a better way to manage your health long-term, consider Direct Primary Care. 

Learn more about how DPC works at Exemplar Care
Or contact us to schedule your first visit and get started with personalized care today. 

“Our greatest asset in life is our health. Focus on what you can do now to keep your body healthy before the ‘check engine’ light comes on.”
— Jason Gillespie, Provider at Exemplar Care – Omaha

Let’s make caring for your health easier—together.