Hypertension Specialist

What causes hypertension?

Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure, which is a measurement of the force the blood places on the blood vessels walls during circulation. Blood pressure measurements include two numbers - the first is the systolic pressure, a measurement of the pressure of the blood while the heart is beating. The second is the diastolic pressure, which measures the pressure of the blood while the heart is at rest between beats. In most people, a blood pressure between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg is considered normal. Patients with pressures of 140/90 mmHg or higher are considered to have high blood pressure, while patients who have pressures in between those two numbers are considered to be prehypertensive, or at substantially greater risk for developing hypertension.

What complications or medical problems are associated with high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke, and it also increases the risks of organ damage, including damage to the kidneys and eyes, and peripheral artery disease. It’s also a risk factor for dementia and erectile dysfunction.

How is high blood pressure diagnosed?

High blood pressure usually causes no symptoms until a serious event like a heart attack or stroke occurs. As a result, many people have high blood pressure and don’t know it, which means they’re at a much higher risk for serious problems. High blood pressure is diagnosed using a blood pressure cuff that’s placed on the arm (and sometimes the leg) and inflated. Once the cuff is fully inflated, a very sensitive gauge picks up the pulse in the arm or leg so it can be recorded.

How is hypertension treated?

People who have high blood pressure usually require both medications to lower their pressure and lifestyle changes, like:

• losing excess weight
• quitting smoking
• being more physically active
• eating a healthier diet rich in fiber and low in unhealthy fats and sodium
• learning to manage stress

Patients will need to have regular office visits to ensure their pressure stays under control, and additional screenings may be recommended, including blood tests to monitor cholesterol and glucose levels.