High Blood Pressure - Advanced Heart and Vein
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. While it is completely normal for a person’s blood pressure to change throughout the day based on certain activities, having blood pressure measures consistently above normal may result in a diagnosis of high blood pressure.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Most people with high blood pressure do not have signs or symptoms. However, some people with extremely high blood pressure may experience the following symptoms:

  • Severe headaches
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nosebleeds
  • Fatigue or confusion
  • Vision problems
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain

Causes of High Blood Pressure

There are two types of high blood pressure:

Primary Hypertension

Primary hypertension has no clear identifiable cause, but it is thought to be linked to genetics, poor diet, lack of exercise and obesity. Primary hypertension tends to develop gradually over time. 

Secondary hypertension

Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure that is caused by another medical condition. Common conditions that may cause secondary hypertension:

  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Kidney disease
  • Thyroid problems
  • Adrenal gland tumors
  • Certain medications

Treatments for High Blood Pressure

Treatment will depend on what is causing high blood pressure. Common treatment options include:

  • Medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, diuretics, aldosterone antagonists, etc.
  • Renal Denervation (RDN), a new FDA approved therapy, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can help lower blood pressure by disrupting the activity of renal nerves in the kidneys. The procedure uses a catheter to send radiofrequency (heat) energy or ultrasound to the renal arteries, which supply blood to the kidneys. This disrupts nerve signals between the brain and the kidney, which control blood pressure.
  • Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting the amount of alcohol you drink.

The team at Advanced Heart and Vein Center is committed to helping our patients decrease the risks associated with uncontrolled hypertension and elevated blood pressure, including heart disease and stroke. If you think you may have high blood pressure, call to schedule an appointment.  

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