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  4. The Role of Blood Tests in Managing High Blood Pressure

The Role of Blood Tests in Managing High Blood Pressure

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Blood tests play a crucial role in managing high blood pressure by helping to identify underlying causes, assess organ function, and monitor treatment effectiveness. Key markers include electrolytes, kidney function, and lipid profiles.

Managing high blood pressure effectively involves more than just measuring systolic and diastolic readings. Blood tests provide invaluable insights:

  • Kidney Function:
    • Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine: Elevated levels may indicate impaired kidney function, a common complication or cause of high blood pressure.
  • Electrolytes:
    • Sodium and Potassium: Imbalances can influence blood pressure and heart function.
    • Sodium levels should be monitored, as high sodium can lead to hypertension.
    • Potassium helps counterbalance sodium's effects on blood pressure.
  • Lipid Profile:
    • Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and Triglycerides: High cholesterol and LDL levels can contribute to atherosclerosis, increasing blood pressure.
    • HDL helps remove LDL, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Blood Glucose and HbA1c:
    • Elevated blood glucose and HbA1c can indicate diabetes, which often coexists with hypertension and increases cardiovascular risk.
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC):
    • Anemia or polycythemia can affect blood viscosity and pressure. Monitoring RBC count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit is vital.
  • Hormonal Assessments:
    • Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, Free T4): Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can affect blood pressure.
    • Aldosterone and Renin: These hormones regulate blood pressure; imbalances can indicate endocrine hypertension.

Regular blood tests, alongside monitoring blood pressure readings, provide a comprehensive picture of cardiovascular health, helping tailor treatment to the individual needs of patients.

Recommended Tests:

  1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  2. Cholesterol

Heart DISEASES

MEDTECH

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