Partner with Primary Care to Address Critical Health Conditions

Did you know that there are five common silent conditions that potentially threaten your health, and shouldn’t be ignored?

At Avenue 360 Health + Wellness, our primary care providers (PCPs) are committed to supporting you in prioritizing your health. Every day, we witness the resilience of our community members as they navigate life’s challenges. But there are silent threats lurking—health conditions that demand your primary care provider’s attention. 

In this article, we shed light on five critical health issues: Hypertension, Major Depression, High Cholesterol, Coronary Artery Disease, and Type 2 Diabetes. These conditions, if left untreated, can have serious consequences. 

Let’s explore how we can empower you to partner with your primary care provider and take charge of your well-being.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, affects millions of Americans. It occurs when the force of blood against the walls of arteries is consistently too high. While it may not always present noticeable symptoms, it silently damages blood vessels, the heart, and other organs. 

Here’s why untreated hypertension is a ticking time bomb:

• Cardiovascular Complications: Elevated blood pressure strains the heart, leading to conditions like coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and heart failure.
• Stroke Risk: Hypertension increases the likelihood of strokes by damaging blood vessels in the brain.
• Kidney Damage: Over time, high blood pressure harms the kidneys, impairing their function.
• Vision Problems: Untreated hypertension can cause retinal damage, leading to vision loss.

TIP: Remember, regular blood pressure checks and lifestyle modifications (such as a healthy diet, exercise, and stress management) are crucial for preventing complications.

Major Depression

Major depression isn’t just feeling down; it’s a serious mental illness that affects mood, thoughts, and behavior. 

Left untreated, it can have devastating consequences:

• Functional Impairment: Depression interferes with daily life, affecting work, relationships, and self-care.
• Suicide Risk: Severe depression increases the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions.
• Physical Health: Depressed individuals are more prone to chronic illnesses due to weakened immune systems and disrupted sleep patterns.

TIP: Early diagnosis, therapy, and sometimes medication are all essential tools for managing depression effectively.

High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is essential for bodily functions, but high levels can be dangerous. 

Here’s why untreated high cholesterol is a red flag:

• Atherosclerosis: Excess cholesterol forms plaques in arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow.
• Heart Attacks and Strokes: Plaques can rupture, causing heart attacks or strokes.
• Peripheral Artery Disease: Reduced blood flow to limbs can lead to pain and tissue damage.

TIP: Lifestyle changes (such as a heart-healthy diet, exercise, and medication) are crucial for managing cholesterol levels.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

CAD occurs when coronary arteries narrow due to plaque buildup. 

If left untreated, it can have severe consequences:

• Angina: Chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart.
• Heart Attacks: Complete blockage of a coronary artery leads to heart muscle damage.
• Heart Failure: CAD weakens the heart over time, affecting its pumping ability.

TIP: Regular check-ups, lifestyle modifications, and medications can prevent CAD progression.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes affects how the body processes glucose. 

Without proper management, it can lead to:

• Cardiovascular Complications: Diabetes damages blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Kidney Disease: Uncontrolled diabetes harms the kidneys.
• Nerve Damage: Neuropathy causes pain, numbness, and weakness.
• Vision Problems: Diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness.

TIP: Early detection, blood sugar control, and a healthy lifestyle are essential for managing type 2 diabetes.

Remember, prevention and timely intervention are our best weapons against these silent threats. Regular check-ups, healthy habits, and seeking medical advice when needed can save lives.

For more information about our primary care services and to schedule an appointment, call 713.426.0027.

The information contained in this Avenue 360 Web site is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment, and Avenue 360 recommends consultation with your Avenue 360 doctor or health care professional.