Metropolitan Polyclinic warns about the importance of hypertension control

The planet unites every May 17 to highlight a sneaky and concerning health issue: high blood pressure. In Belém, on World Hypertension Day, the Metropolitan Polyclinic takes the opportunity to alert about the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment of the condition.

Cardiologist Felipe Pacheco, coordinator of the department at the unit, explains that arterial hypertension, commonly known as "high blood pressure," is a chronic and silent condition that often presents no symptoms — making it even more dangerous.

"Hypertension is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular diseases in the world. It can progress silently until it causes complications such as heart failure, myocardial infarction, stroke (CVA), and even chronic kidney disease," he warns.

According to him, prevention and early diagnosis are essential to prevent high blood pressure from leading to more severe conditions. The recommendation is that adults regularly measure their blood pressure, even in the absence of symptoms.

"Many people only discover they are hypertensive after a serious event. Therefore, it is essential to maintain regular medical follow-up, adopt a healthy diet, engage in physical activities, and avoid excessive consumption of salt and alcohol," advises Pacheco.

The specialist also emphasizes that controlling hypertension depends on lifestyle changes. He highlights that factors such as sedentary lifestyle, obesity, stress, and smoking are related to the onset and worsening of the disease.

"The treatment of hypertension goes beyond medications. It is necessary to take care of health in a comprehensive way. Adopting healthy habits not only helps control blood pressure but also contributes to improving overall quality of life," points out the doctor.

According to data from the Ministry of Health, about 30% of the Brazilian adult population suffers from hypertension, but many of these cases have not yet been diagnosed or are without appropriate treatment.

Five tips from the specialist to prevent and control hypertension:

Adopt a balanced diet: Consume more fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole foods, reducing salt and avoiding processed foods.
Monitor your blood pressure regularly: Even without symptoms, perform routine check-ups to identify possible changes in blood pressure.
Control body weight: Keep the body mass index (BMI) within the healthy range and, if necessary, seek professional guidance.
Reduce alcohol consumption and avoid smoking: Cigarettes and excessive alcohol increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Follow medical treatment correctly: If diagnosed with hypertension, use medications as prescribed and maintain regular consultations.

Reference

The Metropolitan Polyclinic, managed by the Institute of Social and Environmental Health of the Amazon (ISSAA) and the State Department of Public Health of Pará (Sespa), is a reference in clinical cardiology care, one of the most sought-after specialties by the population.

In addition to medical assistance, the Polyclinic has extensive diagnostic capacity for screening and monitoring heart diseases. Among the tests offered are electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, stress test, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), and 24-hour Holter.

Service - The first access to the unit's services is through state regulation. Once attended at the unit, the scheduling of follow-up consultations and exams can be done through the Relationship Center, via WhatsApp Business tool, at the number (91) 98521-5110, and also via email: [email protected].

The user needs to present a photo ID (preferably RG), CPF, National Health Card, and proof of residence (originals and copies). If it is a child and does not yet have an RG, it is possible to present the birth certificate and the official documents of the mother.