Our Ridgeline Medical Provider, Scott Ulrich, PA-C

Our Ridgeline Medical Provider, Scott Ulrich, PA-C

Our medical team at Ridgeline Medical consists of highly qualified medical professionals who strive to give their patients the highest quality of care. Our providers work together to optimize their patient’s health by creating a relationship with them, genuinely listening, and cultivating a safe place. We provide a range of services that includes everything from yearly wellness visits to broken bones. Our providers consolidate their patient’s medical records to assure a safe treatment plan across the board, making us a unique hub for all of our patient’s medical needs. We want to introduce you to Scott Ulrich, one of our Physician Assistants.

Scott Ulrich was born and raised in Southeast Idaho. After high school, he spent a few years in Brazil and learned Portuguese. In 2003 he attended the LDS Business College in Salt Lake City, UT, then transferred to Idaho State University and completed his undergraduate degree in 2007. In 2009, after taking part in the physician assistant program at ISU, he graduated with his master’s degree.

Over the last 10 years, Scott has worked in primary care, urgent care, and women’s health. He is a great believer in the value of a collaborative, team approach to medicine, and offers high-quality health care to all family members. At Ridgeline Medical, Scott focuses on acute and chronic illnesses, wellness and well-child exams, and performs minor procedures.

His particular medical interests include:

Scott is married and has five children. He and his family are outdoor enthusiasts, and he particularly enjoys camping, fishing, hiking, and playing sports. He also speaks Spanish. We are so happy to have him as part of our Ridgeline Medical team! Contact Ridgeline Medical to make an appointment with Scott Ulrich today.

 

High Blood Pressure- What you need to know

High Blood Pressure- What you need to know

Hypertension or high blood pressure can be a silent killer that doesn’t even present a lot of symptoms. Your blood pressure can vary throughout the day depending on your activities, but having elevated blood pressure consistently can lead to significant damage to your blood vessels, heart, eyes, and even kidneys. The higher your blood pressure levels are, the more risk you have for other problems such as heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Taking your blood pressure frequently is a great way to ensure it is within normal range. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers. The first number, called systolic, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The second number, called diastolic, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. The systolic blood pressure reading is always said first, followed by the diastolic.

WHEN IS IT HYPERTENSION?

Guidelines have changed over the past several years. The most recent data from the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association offers these guidelines:

1. Normal Systolic is less than 120, Normal Diastolic is less than 80.

2. Elevated Systolic is 120-129, diastolic is less than 80.

3. High Blood Pressure Systolic reading is 130 or higher, and Diastolic is 80 or higher.

WHAT CAN CAUSE HYPERTENSION?

  • Unhealthy diet
  • Lack of physical activity or exercise
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy

CAN HYPERTENSION BE TREATED?

There are many treatment options for hypertension, and in most cases, with your doctor, it can be successfully managed.  Here are some ways you can help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range, or lower it if it has become elevated:

1. Make it a habit to take your blood pressure consistently. Write down the dates and numbers so you can track what is going on. If you don’t have a blood pressure cuff, they can be found at most pharmacies.

2. Get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week.

3. Don’t smoke.

4. Eat a healthy diet, and limit your sodium and alcohol intake. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) is a flexible and balanced eating plan that helps create a heart-healthy eating style.

5. Maintain a healthy weight.

6. Keep stress as managed and under control as possible.

Sometimes, even when following these guidelines, the blood pressure can remain elevated. If your blood pressure is consistently elevated, contact the providers at Ridgeline Medical in Idaho Falls, Idaho for a consultation. Medication may be needed to keep your blood pressure at a healthy level and protect you against heart disease, stroke, and other problems. Ridgeline Medical has a team of highly qualified medical professionals who strive to give their patients the highest quality of care and will work together with you to optimize your health!

Some content is provided by CDC.gov.