Hypertension Specialist

What is hypertension?

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition that occurs when the pressure inside blood vessel walls is higher than it’s supposed to be. 

Untreated high blood pressure puts you at risk of a heart attack, stroke, heart disease, and other heart problems. Weight loss and other treatments can get your levels back into a normal, healthy range.

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

If you have hypertension, you likely won’t notice any signs or symptoms of the disease. However, if your blood pressure reaches dangerously high levels, you may notice shortness of breath, headaches, or nosebleeds.

Routine blood pressure screening is the best way to detect hypertension and treat it before complications occur.

Is obesity a risk factor for hypertension?

High blood pressure can happen to anyone, but obesity does increase your risk of developing it. Other risk factors include :

• Family history of high blood pressure
• Older age
• Tobacco use
• Physical inactivity
• Excessive alcohol intakes
• Excessive dietary sodium
• Too little dietary potassium
• Ongoing stress

Your risk of hypertension also increases if you have chronic medical problems, such as kidney disease, diabetes, or sleep apnea.

How does my doctor diagnose high blood pressure?

To diagnose high blood pressure and develop an effective treatment, your doctor uses a blood pressure cuff and stethoscope or blood pressure machine. They review your medical history and symptoms, if you have any, and complete a physical exam. 

Your specialist may recommend you complete blood tests or other diagnostic tests to detect or rule out additional medical problems.

What are the treatments for hypertension?

Common treatments for hypertension include:

Medications

Taking medications can reduce high blood pressure and lower your risk of complications. 

Weight loss

Advanced Surgeons offer a variety of medical weight loss treatments that can reduce hypertension. Examples include weight loss surgery, hormone treatments, weight loss medications, nutrition counseling, weight loss support groups, dietary supplements, and more.

Healthy habits

Changing your diet, exercise regimen, and other habits can lower blood pressure naturally and help you achieve or maintain an ideal weight.

To learn more about medical weight loss as a treatment for hypertension, call the nearest Advanced Surgeons office or book an appointment online today.