Hypertension Specialist

What are the signs and symptoms of high blood pressure?

The majority of patients never experience symptoms of hypertension; instead, it’s often found during a routine blood pressure screening at an unrelated doctor’s visit. Patients with dangerously high blood pressure might experience chest pain, poor tolerance of exercise, headaches, or difficulty breathing. These signs and symptoms might indicate a medical emergency; treatment should be sought in the nearest emergency room.

How’s high blood pressure diagnosed?

Hypertension is diagnosed based on blood pressure, which is measured using a cuff placed around the arm. Blood pressure is considered a basic vital sign and is generally measured at every office visit.

What causes high blood pressure?

In many cases, the cause of high blood pressure is unknown. Researchers do know that poor diet, inactivity, age, obesity, and genetics play a role in the development of high blood pressure.

Can high blood pressure be prevented?

Because some lifestyle factors play a role in the development of hypertension, patients can take several steps to decrease their risk of developing this condition:

• Get 30 minutes of exercise 5 days per week
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains

What are the risks of untreated high blood pressure?

Unmanaged high blood pressure can cause life-threatening complications including atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries), heart disease, heart failure, kidney disease, eye disease, and stroke. For these reasons, it’s critical that patients schedule annual physicals to monitor blood pressure and detect hypertension early. Patients who are at higher risk of hypertension due to family history should notify their primary care provider.

How is high blood pressure treated?

High blood pressure is most commonly treated using a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Patients with high blood pressure can sometimes lower their blood pressure by losing weight, adjusting their diet to limit salt and increase fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and adding physical activity to their daily routine. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can also help. Many patients also need medication to keep their blood pressure low.

Only a doctor who knows the patient’s full medical history and has completed a physical exam on the patient can determine the best course of treatment.