Fairview Doctors
Heart Health
Great blood pressure management is one way to take care of your health!
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Our program allows us to help you maintain/adjust your blood pressure towards the optimal level.
The information below is a guide towards the steps we will take to set you on the path to a healthier life.
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First, you will go through why you should consider enrolling in this hypertension program, showcasing some of the major complications that can occur as a result of having abnormal/uncontrolled blood pressure.
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Secondly, we explain the values displayed on your home blood pressure monitoring device (differ from a diabetic to a non-diabetic). The risk factors that may cause a change in these readings making them classified as abnormal. Furthermore, some links for further information.
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Thirdly, information regarding what will happen during your appointment based on the data you provide regarding your previous blood pressure readings and blood work. Additionally, the schedule you should follow to help keep your blood pressure in control. Overall, a general overview with your doctor regarding the results of your bloodwork.
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Finally, booking the appointment that will hopefully put you on track to optimal blood pressure health!
Importance
Blood Pressure Readings
Process
Abnormal blood pressure readings
1) #1 risk factor for a stroke
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2) Increases your chances of dementia
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3) Impacts your vision
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4) Damages your heart valves, which can require repair or otherwise lead to heart failure
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5) Increases your chances of a heart attack
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6) Kidney damage if uncontrolled for many years
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7) For males; doubles your risk of getting erectile dysfunction
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Blood pressure is controlled
1) In-person visit; annual:
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Focuses on your blood pressure and heart health
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Review your risk factors
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Blood work (Cholesterol and Kidney function, prostate screen for male patients)
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Discuss and plan for a target blood pressure
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Prescription renewal for blood pressure medications
2) Online follow up; after 6 months:
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Focuses on home blood pressure readings
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Assess any side effects of medications
*Note: No fasting required. Health card required.
02
Blood pressure is uncontrolled
1) Frequent in-person visits to acheive target blood pressure​
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2) Medications for blood pressure will be renewed for 1 year and the next renewal requires an in-person visit. So ensure to book your annual in-person visit before prescription runs out.
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*Note: No fasting required. Health card required.
Instructions
1) The top number is systolic pressure (when your heart contracts); ideally = 135
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2) The bottom number is diastolic pressure (when your heart relaxes and fills up with blood)
; ideally = 90
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3) Ideal reading for a non-diabetic is 135/90, for diabetics they would need a lower reading
lower than 130/90.
*Note: Some populations have a higher risk including; indigenous, South Asian, and Black populations.
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4) High blood pressure can damage your blood vessels resulting in other health issues, therefore you should be aware of your personal risk factors which can allow hypertension,
the most common risk factors include:
a) Age; as you get older you are at a higher risk
b) Smoking
c) Alcohol
d) Weight gain
*Note: regular readings are vital as high blood pressure can occur without any visible symptoms, so ideally we would like to check your blood pressure every 3 months or anytime you are not feeling well.
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5) Hypertension Canada recommends that you monitor your blood pressure using a home device, below are some links for proper home monitoring: