Hypertension Specialist

Amsterdam Medical Practice

Internists located in Washington Heights, New York, NY

As many as one in three adults lives with hypertension or high blood pressure, but many aren’t aware of it because they don’t have severe symptoms. Finding doctors who know how to identify and treat hypertension is essential for maintaining excellent health. The multidisciplinary team at Amsterdam Medical Practice in Washington Heights in New York offers cutting-edge technology that pinpoints specific problems, comprehensive treatment plans, and also onsite visits with a nephrologist to help individuals with kidney disease manage hypertension and kidney disease-related symptoms to put patients on the road to better health. Call or schedule an appointment online for a screening or for help managing your high blood pressure.

Hypertension Q & A

What is hypertension?

Hypertension, more commonly known as high blood pressure, is the rapid flow of blood through the arteries of the heart. Over time, the constant, powerful rush of blood against the artery walls takes its toll, resulting in long-term damage to the heart.

Untreated hypertension leads to heart disease and other health problems such as kidney and eye disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis.

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

Many people with high blood pressure have no visible symptoms. The headaches and shortness of breath that sometimes accompany hypertension are attributable to other conditions, making it difficult to determine the cause of the problem using these two symptoms alone.

The best way to determine if you have high blood pressure is to visit your doctor for an annual screening.

What causes high blood pressure?

There are two types of hypertension. The cause of the first kind of hypertension, known as primary hypertension, is unknown. People with primary hypertension experience increasingly elevated blood pressure as time progresses.

Secondary hypertension occurs as a result of an underlying condition, the use of medications, or the consumption of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription amphetamines. Underlying illnesses can also cause secondary hypertension: kidney disease, thyroid issues, congenital disabilities, or obstructive sleep apnea.

People who experience secondary hypertension can experience sudden spikes in blood pressure that are much higher than spikes in people with primary hypertension.

Men and women who have a diet that’s high in salt and who don’t consume enough potassium and vitamin D are at risk of developing high blood pressure. Factors such as race and age can also play a part in the onset of secondary hypertension.

Other causes may include:

  • Use of tobacco products, including chewing tobacco and cigarettes
  • Stress
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Lack of exercise

Let the experienced physicians of Amsterdam Medical Practice conduct a blood pressure screening or help you manage your high blood pressure: Call the office or book your appointment online today.