Hypertension

When you have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, you might not have any symptoms, but your risk of having a heart attack or other health problems is greater. Keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range helps lower your risk of serious health issues. At the practice of David Ramin, M.D., Dr. Ramin offers treatment for men and women in Beverly Hills, California, who have hypertension. To schedule an appointment, call the office or request an appointment online.

Does hypertension cause any symptoms?

Hypertension usually doesn’t cause any symptoms, which makes it dangerous. You can have high blood pressure for many years without realizing it. If your blood pressure does reach a severe or potentially life-threatening level, you might have a few symptoms, such as a nosebleed, trouble breathing, or headaches. If this happens, you’ll need to seek immediate medical care.

How do I know if I have hypertension?

During your visit with Dr. Ramin, you’ll have your blood pressure taken to see if it falls within a healthy range, which is below 120/80. If your blood pressure reading is high, Dr. Ramin will discuss ways to manage hypertension to bring it down to a healthy level. If you’ve already been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you’ll need to have your blood pressure taken more often to see whether or not it’s still high.

Am I at risk for hypertension?

You might have a higher risk of hypertension if you have one or more risk factors, such as:

• Family history of hypertension
• Obesity
• Diabetes or another underlying condition that affects blood pressure
• Inactive or sedentary lifestyle
• High amount of sodium and low amount of potassium in your diet
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Stress
• Age 45 or higher in men or age 65 or higher in women
• Heavy drinking

What causes hypertension?

If you have primary hypertension, you might never find out what causes it. This type of hypertension develops slowly over the years. If you have secondary hypertension, you have an underlying condition affecting your blood pressure, such as sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, or kidney problems. You can also develop secondary hypertension from some medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers and birth control pills.

How can I manage hypertension?

Dr. Ramin will talk to you about ways to manage your blood pressure. That might include making lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier, avoiding high-sodium foods, and exercising on a regular basis. Dr. Ramin might also recommend medications that help lower your blood pressure, such as thiazide diuretics or beta blockers.

If you have hypertension or need a blood pressure reading, please call David Ramin, M.D., or schedule an online appointment.