The silent killer: New guidelines for managing high blood pressure

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology have released the first major update to high blood pressure management guidelines since 2017. Hypertension remains one of the leading causes of heart disease and stroke in the U.S.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can cause symptoms such as headaches, chest pain, and vision problems. Over time, it can damage major organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys. In severe cases, it can lead to clogged arteries, strokes, and heart disease.

Dr. Kamesh Sivagnanam, a cardiologist with Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen, explains that one of the biggest challenges with hypertension is that many people are unaware they have it until serious complications occur.

“There’