Services & Specialties
High Blood Pressure
Hypertension
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. High blood pressure, also called hypertension, occurs when that pressure remains higher than normal over time.
Systolic pressure over diastolic pressure, measured in mm Hg
Understanding Readings
Know your numbers
A blood pressure reading includes a systolic number—the pressure when the heart contracts—and a diastolic number—the pressure when the heart relaxes.
Systolic less than 120 and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.
Systolic 120–129 and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.
Systolic 130–139 or diastolic 80–89 mm Hg.
Systolic 140 or higher or diastolic 90 or higher.
Know Your Risk
Risk factors
High blood pressure usually develops over time. Some risk factors can be changed, while others relate to age, family history or health conditions.
Family history of high blood pressure
Increasing age
A diet high in sodium
Lack of physical activity
Overweight or obesity
Smoking and tobacco use
Drinking too much alcohol
Long-term stress
Diabetes or chronic kidney disease
Obstructive sleep apnea
Recognize the Condition
High blood pressure is often silent.
High blood pressure usually has no warning signs or symptoms, and many people do not know they have it. Measuring your blood pressure is the only way to know whether it is high.
Why Control Matters
Possible health effects
Over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and important organs throughout the body.
Heart
Coronary artery disease, chest pain, heart attack or heart failure.
Brain
Stroke, cognitive decline or dementia.
Kidneys
Damage to the blood vessels that help the kidneys filter waste.
Eyes
Damage to the small blood vessels of the retina and possible vision loss.
Arteries
Arterial damage and reduced elasticity that can limit blood flow.
Pregnancy
High blood pressure during pregnancy requires careful medical management.
Clinical Evaluation
Diagnosis and monitoring
Your care team reviews blood pressure readings and your overall health to confirm a diagnosis and develop an individualized plan.
Blood Pressure Readings
Repeated measurements may be taken during office visits.
Home Monitoring
Home readings can help confirm office results and track progress.
Medical History
Your doctor may review medications, family history and other risk factors.
Blood and Urine Tests
Testing may help identify related health conditions or organ effects.
Electrocardiogram
An EKG records the heart’s electrical activity.
Additional Heart Testing
Your doctor may recommend other cardiovascular tests when appropriate.
Treatment & Management
A plan built around your health
Treatment depends on your blood pressure readings, other medical conditions and overall cardiovascular risk. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medication or both.
- Follow a heart-healthy eating pattern and reduce sodium
- Get regular physical activity as recommended by your doctor
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Do not smoke or use tobacco
- Limit alcohol and manage stress
- Take prescribed blood-pressure medication exactly as directed
- Monitor your blood pressure and attend follow-up appointments
Cardiovascular Consultants
Take control of your blood pressure.
For non-emergency questions or to schedule an appointment, contact Cardiovascular Consultants.