(4/17/2014)  Hypertension was the topic of a Lunch and Learn held last week at the Center for Health & Fitness.

Dr. Jose Hernandez, of Loris Family Health Center, discussed the causes, symptoms and treatment options associated with hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. Dubbed "the silent killer", one of the most dangerous aspects of hypertension is that often time’s people do not know that they have it. Nearly one-third of people with high blood pressure do not know it.

According to Dr. Hernandez, the only way to know if your blood pressure is high is by receiving regular checkups. This is especially important if you have a close relative who has high blood pressure. If you are experiencing extremely high blood pressure, there may be certain symptoms to look out for to alert you to get it checked, including:

·        Severe headache

·        Fatigue or confusion

·        Vision problems

·        Chest pain

·        Difficulty breathing

·        Irregular heartbeat

·        Blood in the urine

·        Pounding in your chest, neck, or ears

If you have any of these symptoms, you need to see a doctor immediately. Hypertension is the leading cause of stroke and a major cause of heart attack. In the U.S. alone, more than 30% of American adults have high blood pressure. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious conditions such as stroke, heart disease, kidney failure and eye problems.

For more information about Loris Family Health Center or outreach events offered by McLeod Loris Seacoast, please call (843) 390-8326.