Find Blood Pressure Specialists near you

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FAQs:

What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure is also known as hypertension. It happens when the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels is too high. High blood pressure can lead to other serious problems such as heart attack and stroke.

What is Considered High Blood Pressure?

Definitions of high blood pressure vary slightly depending on where you live. In the U.S., healthcare providers define high blood pressure (hypertension) as:

1. A top number (systolic blood pressure) of at least 130 mmHg, and/or

2. A bottom number (diastolic blood pressure) of at least 80 mmHg.

In Europe, healthcare providers define hypertension as:

1. A top number of at least 140 mmHg, and/or

2. A bottom number of at least 90 mmHg.

What is Considered Stroke Level High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke. HBP adds to your heart’s workload and damages your arteries and organs over time. Compared to people whose blood pressure is normal, people with HBP are more likely to have a stroke. About 87% of strokes are caused by narrowed or clogged blood vessels in the brain that cut off the blood flow to brain cells. This is an ischemic stroke. High blood pressure causes damage to the inner lining of the blood vessels. This will narrow an artery. About 13% of strokes occur when a blood vessel ruptures in or near the brain. This is a hemorrhagic stroke. Chronic HBP or aging blood vessels are the main causes of this type of stroke. HBP strains blood vessels. Over time, they no longer hold up to the pressure and rupture.

How Do You Feel When You Have High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure usually doesn’t cause any obvious symptoms. Many people with high blood pressure feel fine, so they might not even realize they have it. However, if your blood pressure is very high (180 mmHg or above/120 mmHg or above), you might have heart palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, headaches, or other symptoms. These are signs of a hypertensive crisis, which is a medical emergency. If you think you are having a hypertensive crisis, call 911 immediately.

Why is High Blood Pressure Known as "The Silent Killer"?

High blood pressure is a 'silent killer.' Most of the time there are no obvious symptoms. Certain physical traits and lifestyle choices can put you at a greater risk for high blood pressure. When left untreated, the damage that high blood pressure does to your circulatory system is a significant contributing factor to heart attack, stroke, and other health threats.

Can Anxiety Cause High Blood Pressure?

A 2015 review indicates that people with intense anxiety have a higher risk of hypertension than those with lower levels of anxiety. Researchers conclude that early detection and treatment of anxiety are particularly important in people with hypertension.

Anxiety-induced increases in blood pressure are usually temporary and subside once the anxiety lessens. Regularly having high levels of anxiety, however, can cause damage to the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels in the same way that long-term hypertension can.

In the long term, anxiety-related hormone changes may cause increased fat deposits, particularly around the abdomen. Anxiety can also prompt behavior changes in people, such as stress eating, which may indirectly contribute to hypertension.

Additionally, some medications for anxiety can increase blood pressure. Research from 2017 found that serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), which people use to treat anxiety disorders, can increase blood pressure.

Does High Blood Pressure Cause Dizziness?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, can cause dizziness. A recent study of 2,002 participants with high blood pressure looked at the various symptoms of people reporting to the emergency room. In those with a high systolic blood pressure of 180 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or more, almost 16% reported dizziness.

High blood pressure can cause dizziness by narrowing and damaging blood vessels. According to an older sourceTrusted Source, this can compromise the blood supply to the inner ear, a vital component of the body’s balance control system. As a result, a person may experience a sense of unsteadiness or lightheadedness.

Furthermore, some blood pressure medications may cause dizziness as a side effect, either due to rapid blood pressure lowering or other effects on the body.

It is also important to note that high blood pressure is a significant risk factor for stroke. A stroke can affect the brain’s balance control, resulting in dizziness. Anyone with sudden dizziness or loss of balance and coordination should seek urgent medical attention.

Can Stress Cause High Blood Pressure?

Stress can cause hypertension through repeated blood pressure elevations as well as by stimulation of the nervous system to produce large amounts of vasoconstricting hormones that increase blood pressure. Factors affecting blood pressure through stress include white coat hypertension, job strain, race, social environment, and emotional distress. Furthermore, when one risk factor is coupled with other stress-producing factors, the effect on blood pressure is multiplied. Overall, studies show that stress does not directly cause hypertension, but can affect its development.

Is High Blood Pressure Genetic?

A family history of high blood pressure is a risk factor for you developing high blood pressure. Having one or more close family members with high blood pressure before the age of 60 means you have two times the risk of having it. A strong family history means you have 3 or more relatives who had high blood pressure before 60. It is important to understand that a family history of high blood pressure does not mean you will have high blood pressure, but it does increase your chances. A family history of high blood pressure has been linked to other risk factors for heart disease and stroke. These factors include high cholesterol, high body fat, and being more sensitive to the effects of salt on raising blood pressure. These risk factors can put you at risk for future heart disease and stroke, even though you may not have high blood pressure yourself.

Is High Blood Pressure Considered Heart Disease?

Hypertension is not heart disease. However, hypertension can be a major contributing factor to heart disease, which is why hypertension is not something you want to ignore. “In terms of your heart, there is a strong link between hypertension and coronary artery disease,” said Kavitha Kalvakuri, MD, a cardiologist at OSF HealthCare Cardiovascular Institute. “Blockages and coronary artery disease development can be accelerated by hypertension. A weak heart muscle is another consequence of uncontrolled hypertension. Higher pressure on the vessel walls can damage them, making it easier for plaque to build up, creating a dangerous blockage. It also forces your heart to pump harder to circulate your blood properly. This overwork can lead to a weakened heart down the road. If allowed to run unchecked, hypertension can damage not only the heart but also the brain, eyes, and kidneys.

Can Lack of Sleep Cause High Blood Pressure?

A regular lack of sleep may lead to high blood pressure (hypertension) in children and adults. The less you sleep, the higher your blood pressure may go. People who sleep six hours or less may have steeper increases in blood pressure. If you already have high blood pressure, not sleeping well may make your blood pressure worse.

Don't try to make up for a lack of sleep with a lot of sleep. Too much sleep — although not as bad as too little sleep — can lead to high blood sugar and weight gain, which can affect heart health. Talk to your healthcare provider for tips on getting better sleep, especially if you have high blood pressure.

One possible, treatable cause of lack of sleep contributing to high blood pressure is obstructive sleep apnea. This sleep disorder causes breathing to repeatedly stop and start during sleep. Talk with your care provider if you feel tired even after a full night's sleep, especially if you snore. Obstructive sleep apnea may be the cause. Obstructive sleep apnea can increase the risk of high blood pressure and other heart problems.

What is the DASH Diet?

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) is an eating plan rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, poultry, nuts, legumes, and low-fat dairy. These foods are high in key nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, fiber, and protein.

The DASH diet can lower blood pressure because it has less salt and sugar than the typical American diet. The DASH diet cuts out desserts, sweetened beverages, fats, red meat, and processed meats.

How Much Does a Consultation with a Cardiologist Cost?

The first time you go to see a cardiologist should be for a consultation to discuss your reasons for being there, including any referral details and, of course, a full medical history. A consultation should also include 2 basic checks – the physical exam and an electrocardiogram. The cost of this can be anywhere from $200 to $400, depending on who you see, the urgency of the appointment, and your location.

What is Blood pressure and the Circulatory System

Your tissues and organs need the blood your circulatory system carries through the body. Your heartbeat makes this happen by pushing blood through the blood vessels. These vessels include arteries, veins, and capillaries. Blood pressure is the result of two forces. The first force (systolic pressure) happens as blood pumps out of the heart and into the arteries. The second force (diastolic pressure) is created as the heart rests between heartbeats. These two forces are each represented by numbers in a blood pressure reading.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms, even if blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels. You can have high blood pressure for years without any symptoms. A few people with high blood pressure may have:

1. Headaches

2. Shortness of breath

3. Nosebleeds

However, these symptoms aren't specific. They usually don't occur until high blood pressure has reached a severe or life-threatening stage.

Causes of High Blood Pressure

Your blood pressure depends on how much blood your heart pumps and how difficult it is for your blood to flow through your arteries. Things that affect either of these factors, such as being dehydrated or having narrow arteries, can impact your blood pressure.

Several things may play a role in causing high blood pressure. Depending on what is causing your high blood pressure, your doctor will determine which type of hypertension you have: primary (or essential) or secondary. You can have one or both types.

A. Essential Hypertension

When there isn’t an obvious cause of high blood pressure, it is called primary (or essential) hypertension. In the U.S., 19 out of 20 people with high blood pressure have this type of hypertension. It often takes many years to develop. Essential hypertension has been linked to certain risk factors in your diet and lifestyle. For example, eating a lot of salt can cause your blood pressure to rise. Many people with this condition are sensitive to salt, so even eating a small amount can trigger a spike in blood pressure.  Other risk factors that can raise the risk of having essential hypertension include:

1. Not getting enough exercise

2. Drinking too much alcohol

3. Having a family member with high blood pressure

4. Getting older (especially after 65 years of age)

5. Obesity

6. Diabetes

7. Stress

8. Insufficient intake of potassium, calcium, and magnesium

9. Lack of physical activity

10. Chronic alcohol consumption

B. Secondary Hypertension

When a direct cause for high blood pressure can be identified, the condition is described as secondary hypertension. This type of high blood pressure is caused by a different health condition. It is usually more sudden and severe than essential hypertension. Some causes include:

1. Kidney disease. This is the most common cause of secondary hypertension.

2. Adrenal disorders. Hypertension can also be triggered by tumors or other abnormalities of adrenal glands (small structures that sit atop the kidneys). Adrenal tumors or disorders can cause them to release too much of the hormones that elevate blood pressure.

3. Thyroid disorders. Too much or too little thyroid hormone can affect your blood pressure.

4. Congenital heart defects. Some people are born with heart or blood vessel problems.

5. Obstructive sleep apnea. This condition causes breathing problems and a lack of oxygen. This can harm your arteries.

6. Birth control pills. Pills used for birth control (specifically those containing estrogen) and pregnancy can boost blood pressure.

7. Cough, cold, and pain-relieving medications. These can temporarily raise blood pressure.

8. Certain medications. Some drugs can constrict blood vessels, making it harder for the heart to pump blood. 

9. Illegal drugs. Cocaine and amphetamines can raise blood pressure.

Risk Factors for High Blood Pressure

There are several risk factors for high blood pressure, including:

1. Smoking. When you smoke, vape, or chew tobacco, your blood pressure temporarily increases. Over time, regular smoking can damage and harden your blood vessels.

2. Being overweight or obese. Extra weight impacts your heart and blood vessels. For example, it can cause high cholesterol.

3. Lack of physical activity. People who don’t exercise tend to have higher heart rates.

4. Eating too much salt. Salt causes your body to hold onto water. This increases the amount of blood being pushed through your arteries.

5. Not eating enough potassium. Potassium helps balance the amount of salt and water in your body. Dehydration also can affect your potassium levels.

6. Drinking too much alcohol. Having more than one to two drinks per day can increase your blood pressure, especially if you are a man.

7. Stress. Feeling nervous or stressed can temporarily raise your blood pressure. When this happens at the doctor’s office, it is called white coat syndrome.

8. Age. As you get older, you are more likely to get high blood pressure. High blood pressure usually affects adults, but it is becoming more common among kids. 

9. Sex. Among people under age 64, high blood pressure is more likely to affect men than women. But after age 65, women are at a higher risk.

10. Family history. High blood pressure tends to run in families. 

11. Race. In the U.S., high blood pressure is more common among Black people than white people. It also usually starts at an earlier age. Blood pressure control, among those for whom blood pressure medication is recommended, is lower among Asian people and Black people compared to non-Hispanic white people.

12. Pregnancy. Blood pressure can rise during pregnancy. 

13. Certain health conditions. People with chronic kidney disease, adrenal and thyroid disorders, and sleep apnea are at risk for secondary hypertension.

14. Certain medications. Birth control pills, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other medicines can cause your blood pressure to go up.

Complications of High Blood Pressure

The excessive pressure on the artery walls caused by high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and body organs. The higher the blood pressure and the longer it goes uncontrolled, the greater the damage. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to complications including:

1. Heart attack or stroke. Hardening and thickening of the arteries due to high blood pressure or other factors can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or other complications.

2. Aneurysm. Increased blood pressure can cause a blood vessel to weaken and bulge, forming an aneurysm. If an aneurysm ruptures, it can be life-threatening.

3. Heart failure. When you have high blood pressure, the heart has to work harder to pump blood. The strain causes the walls of the heart's pumping chamber to thicken. This condition is called left ventricular hypertrophy. Eventually, the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, causing heart failure.

4. Kidney problems. High blood pressure can cause the blood vessels in the kidneys to become narrow or weak. This can lead to kidney damage.

5. Eye problems. Increased blood pressure can cause thickened, narrowed, or torn blood vessels in the eyes. This can result in vision loss.

6. Metabolic syndrome. This syndrome is a group of disorders of the body's metabolism. It involves the irregular breakdown of sugar, also called glucose. The syndrome includes increased waist size, high triglycerides, decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good") cholesterol, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar levels. These conditions make you more likely to develop diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

7. Changes with memory or understanding. Uncontrolled high blood pressure may affect the ability to think, remember, and learn.

8. Dementia. Narrowed or blocked arteries can limit blood flow to the brain. This can cause a certain type of dementia called vascular dementia. A stroke that interrupts blood flow to the brain also can cause vascular dementia.

How to Lower High Blood Pressure

You may be wondering if you can lower your blood pressure naturally. Yes, in some cases, it’s possible to lower your blood pressure without medication. For example, your provider may recommend starting with lifestyle changes if you have elevated blood pressure or stage 1 hypertension. Here are some proven ways to lower your blood pressure naturally:

1. Keep a weight that’s healthy for you. Your healthcare provider can give you a target range.

2. Eat a healthy diet. An example is the DASH diet. This is a way of eating that’s full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.

3. Cut down on salt. Ideally, limit your sodium intake to no more than 1,500 milligrams (mg) per day. If this is too difficult at first, you can start by reducing your daily intake by at least 1,000 milligrams.

4. Get enough potassium. Try to consume 3,500 to 5,000 milligrams per day, ideally through the foods you eat rather than supplements. Some foods high in potassium include bananas, avocados, and potatoes (with skin).

5. Exercise. Ask your healthcare provider for tips to get started. In general, start slow and work your way up to 150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week. Resistance training (like lifting light weights) is also helpful.

6. Limit alcohol. If you choose to drink beverages containing alcohol, do so in moderation.

Sometimes, providers recommend lifestyle changes along with medications to lower your blood pressure.

How to Prevent High Blood Pressure

Fortunately, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure. These include:

1. Follow a healthy eating plan. This is an important step in keeping your blood pressure normal. The DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) emphasizes adding fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet.

2. Cut down on sodium. To prevent hypertension, you should reduce the amount of sodium in your diet. Try to keep it below 1,500 milligrams a day.

3. Keep a healthy weight. Going hand-in-hand with a proper diet is keeping a weight that’s healthy for you. Losing excess weight with diet and exercise will help lower your blood pressure to healthier levels.

4. Keep active. Even simple physical activities, such as walking, can lower your blood pressure (and your weight).

5. Drink alcohol in moderation. Having more than one drink a day (for women or people assigned female at birth) or more than two drinks a day (for men or people assigned male at birth) can raise blood pressure. One drink is defined as 1 ounce (oz) of alcohol, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer.

Foods Good for People with High Blood Pressure

Potassium, magnesium, and fiber, on the other hand, may help control blood pressure. Fruits and vegetables are high in potassium, magnesium, and fiber, and they’re low in sodium. Stick to whole fruits and veggies. Juice is less helpful because the fiber is removed. Also, nuts, seeds, legumes, lean meats, and poultry are good sources of magnesium. To increase the amounts of natural potassium, magnesium, and fiber you take in, select from the following:

- apples

- apricots

- bananas

- beet greens

- broccoli

- carrots

- collards

- green beans

- dates

- grapes

- green peas

- kale

- lima beans

- mangoes

- melons

- oranges

- peaches

- pineapples

- potatoes

- raisins

- spinach

- squash

- strawberries

- sweet potatoes

- tangerines

- tomatoes

- tuna

- yogurt (fat-free)

Drugs to Treat High Blood Pressure

There are several types of drugs used to treat high blood pressure, including:

1. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors

2. Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)

3. Diuretics

4. Beta-blockers

5. Calcium channel blockers

6. Alpha-blockers

7. Alpha-agonists

8. Renin inhibitors

9. Combination medications

Diuretics are often recommended as the first line of therapy for most people who have high blood pressure.

How to Find the Right Blood Pressure Specialist Near Me

It takes some time and research, but it’s worth it to find a doctor who meets your needs. Here are some steps to get you started:

1. Ask your primary care provider. Share your needs and preferences for a cardiologist with your primary care provider. They should be able to identify some cardiologists who may be a good fit for you.

2. Do your research. You can find out about local cardiologists online, through friends and family, and by contacting hospitals in your area. It can be tempting to rely solely on an online search for names, but that may not always provide the information you need to find a great cardiologist. Hospitals often will have bios online for specialists, so you can learn some information about local cardiologists in advance. For example, you may want to consider the cardiologist’s location, specialties, or languages spoken.

3. Check with your insurance company. If you have health insurance, you likely will want to work with a cardiologist who is covered under your plan.

4. Don’t choose a doctor just because everyone claims they are the best. The best blood pressure specialist for them may not be the best one for you.

Sources:

Heart

WebMD

Mayo Clinic

Cleveland Clinic

ASA

Medical News Today

NIH

CDC

OSF Healthcare

Go Red for Women

Cardiologist NYC