Health Tip 

    MONITORING YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE 

What most people don’t realize is that hypertension (high blood pressure) can be a silent disease.  Many people have no symptoms to indicate to them that they have high blood pressure.  Even if a person has no symptoms, if their blood pressure is high, they are at increased risk for congestive heart failure, stroke, impaired vision, and kidney disease. Every one should have their blood pressure checked at least twice a year.  High blood pressure is defined, as a blood pressure greater than 140/90, but the ideal blood pressure would be less tan 120/80. 

Most of the cases of hypertension have no known cause, but it is known that sedentary life styles, alcohol usage, and smoking increase your risk of getting hypertension.  More than half of all persons over 65 has hypertension.  Getting treatment for this will significantly decrease your risk for stroke and heart attacks.  The treatment for older adults should be aimed at lowering the blood pressure slowly.  Usually older individuals require lower doses of medications. 

There are multiple medications that are available to treat hypertension.  However, if your blood pressure is only moderately elevated there are several things you can do to decrease your blood pressure and avoid medicines. 

Patients who require medications may be able to lower the doses or number of medicines they take by following these suggestions, but should do this under the supervision of their doctor. 

About Premier Medical Associates: 

I have recently moved to this area.  I am a graduate of West Virginia University.  I am Board Certified in Internal Medicine with over eight years of experience in both outpatient and hospital based medical care.  Specializing in all aspects of adult medical care including but not limited to: diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, arthritis, thyroid disorders, preventative medicine, and woman’s health. 

As a solo practitioner, I have geared my practice to giving caring, personalized, professional care to all of my patients.  Same day appointments are always available with little wait time.  I am only a phone call away any time of the day for any urgent medical issues.  Please come and see me at 1230 Bald Ridge Marina Road, Suite B, Cumming, GA 30041. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 770-888-6697.

Annette C. Hamilton, MD

Premier Medical Associates, P.C.