High Blood Pressure Risks and Care in Dallas-Fort Worth
Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure—and many don’t even realize it.
Written by: Corey Alexander
Published on: October 23, 2025
Hypertension, as it’s called, is especially concerning in fast-growing areas like Dallas-Fort Worth, where busy lifestyles, stress, and diet can all play a role.
High blood pressure is often called the ‘silent killer’ because most people don’t experience symptoms until it reaches dangerous levels. That’s why regular monitoring is so critical, especially here in North Texas, where heart disease remains one of the leading health risks.
What Happens When Blood Pressure Stays High
When your blood pressure remains elevated, it puts continuous strain on the arteries. Over time, this damages vessel walls, leading to buildup that narrows blood flow. Narrowed arteries force the heart to work harder, creating a cycle that increases the risk for heart attack, stroke, kidney problems, or vision loss.
Blood pressure is measured with two numbers:
- Systolic (top number): Pressure when your heart pumps.
- Diastolic (bottom number): Pressure when your heart rests between beats.
Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg. Anything consistently higher increases your risk for long-term health issues.
Why High Blood Pressure Is Often Missed
Most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms, even at dangerous levels. In some cases, though, people may notice:
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
“The tricky thing is that high blood pressure doesn’t always feel urgent, but it can suddenly become life-threatening,” Dr. Mayer explained.
When to Seek Care in DFW
Legacy ER & Urgent Care has seven convenient locations across Dallas-Fort Worth, offering both emergency room and urgent care services under one roof so patients don’t have to decide where to go when they’re dealing with high blood pressure.
- Seek help when your blood pressure is above 180/120 AND you experience symptoms like chest pain, confusion, severe headache, vision changes, or shortness of breath. These can be signs of organ damage.
- Seek help when your blood pressure suddenly spikes but you don’t have severe symptoms, urgent care can provide evaluation, medication adjustments, and follow-up guidance.
How DFW Residents Can Keep Blood Pressure in Check
- Eat smart: Cut back on sodium and processed foods. Add potassium-rich foods like beans, spinach, and bananas.
- Stay active: Aim for 30 minutes of movement most days—whether that’s walking the Katy Trail, biking White Rock Lake, or joining a local gym.
- Watch weight: Even modest weight loss helps lower blood pressure.
- Limit alcohol & stop smoking: Both raise heart risks.
- Manage stress: Life in North Texas can be fast-paced. Relaxation techniques like yoga, deep breathing, or unplugging can help.
- Check regularly: Know your numbers. Routine check-ups make it easier to catch problems early.