High Blood Pressure in Vermont

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is known as the “silent killer” for a reason—it often has no noticeable symptoms but can quietly damage your heart, arteries, kidneys, and brain over time. Fortunately, it’s also one of the most manageable health conditions when caught early and treated properly.

At Vermont Family Medicine, Dr. Mark Hoffman brings over 30 years of experience helping patients reduce their risks and improve their health through customized treatment plans, ongoing monitoring, and lifestyle support.

What Is High Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure measures the force of your blood against the walls of your arteries. A normal reading is usually around 120/80 mmHg. Consistently higher numbers—especially readings of 130/80 mmHg or above—may indicate hypertension and should be addressed before they cause long-term damage.

Common Risk Factors

  • Family history of hypertension
  • High sodium or processed-food diet
  • Obesity or being overweight
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Chronic stress
  • Excessive alcohol consumption or tobacco use
  • Certain medical conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes

Potential Complications

If untreated, high blood pressure can lead to:

  • Heart attack or stroke
  • Heart failure
  • Kidney damage
  • Vision problems
  • Cognitive decline

Regular monitoring and early treatment help prevent these outcomes.

How Vermont Family Medicine Manages Hypertension

Dr. Hoffman creates a personalized treatment plan based on your numbers, lifestyle, and overall health. This may include:

  • Dietary counseling to follow the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) plan
  • Weight-loss strategies and physical activity planning
  • Stress management techniques such as breathing exercises or mindfulness
  • Medication management including ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta blockers, or diuretics when needed
  • Home blood pressure monitoring with regular in-office follow-ups
  • Lab tests to check kidney function, cholesterol, and electrolyte levels

Why Choose Vermont Family Medicine for Blood Pressure Care?

  • Personalized, Lifestyle-First Approach: We focus on natural improvements before jumping to medication
  • Convenient Monitoring: Support for home BP cuffs and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure tracking
  • Integrated Care: Coordination with cardiologists or nephrologists when necessary
  • Data-Driven Adjustments: Medication and lifestyle plans updated regularly based on your real numbers
  • Long-Term Prevention: Education and support to help you stay on track year after year

Take Charge of Your Numbers

You don’t have to fight high blood pressure alone. Vermont Family Medicine offers the expertise and ongoing support you need to lower your risks and feel your best—now and in the future.

Call +1 (802) 503-7092 today to schedule your blood pressure evaluation with Dr. Mark Hoffman in Williston, VT

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