Hypertension
Hypertension is a common cause of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure when left untreated. You can take charge of your heart health by coming to Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine in Midtown Manhattan, for expert treatment and management of high blood pressure with renowned New York cardiologist Mark Meyer, MD, FACP, FACC.
What Is Hypertension?
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of blood against the artery walls remains consistently too high. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension can place significant strain on your heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, heart attack, and heart failure.
Because high blood pressure often develops without noticeable symptoms, many individuals are unaware they have the condition until significant damage has occurred. This makes routine blood pressure screenings an essential part of preventive health care. When detected early, hypertension can be effectively managed, significantly reducing the risk of life-threatening complications.
Risk Factors for Hypertension
Several factors can increase your risk of developing hypertension. Genetics play a significant role; a family history of high blood pressure may predispose you to the condition. Other risk factors include aging, being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, and tobacco use. Nutritional imbalances, such as diets high in sodium and low in potassium, can also contribute to elevated blood pressure.
Chronic stress, certain health conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and kidney disease, as well as pregnancy, can further elevate the risk. Additionally, hypertension is closely linked to other cardiovascular risk factors, including high cholesterol levels and smoking, and together they can dramatically increase the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack or stroke.
If left untreated, high blood pressure may lead to severe complications beyond the cardiovascular system. Potential outcomes include aneurysms, kidney failure, cognitive decline such as dementia, metabolic syndrome, and damage to blood vessels throughout the body.
How Hypertension Is Diagnosed
At Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine, Dr. Meyer provides comprehensive evaluations to diagnose hypertension. Diagnosis typically involves measuring blood pressure using a standard cuff and stethoscope or an automated blood pressure monitor. If elevated readings are detected, Dr. Meyer conducts a full physical examination and may recommend additional diagnostic tests to assess heart health and related risk factors.
These tests may include blood work, electrocardiograms (EKG), echocardiograms, or other specialized imaging studies. These assessments not only confirm a diagnosis but also help determine the severity of the condition and guide the development of a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment Options for High Blood Pressure
Managing high blood pressure typically begins with lifestyle modifications. Dr. Meyer emphasizes a personalized approach that includes evidence-based strategies such as achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and engaging in regular physical activity.
Recognizing that hypertension is often linked to stress, Dr. Meyer incorporates integrative medicine practices into his treatment plans. Patients may be encouraged to explore stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and other alternative therapies to support overall well-being.
While lifestyle changes are highly effective for many individuals, some patients may require medication to achieve optimal blood pressure control. Commonly prescribed antihypertensive medications include diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers. In some cases, a combination of medications may be necessary.
To ensure ongoing control, Dr. Meyer may recommend daily blood pressure monitoring at home. Although minor daily fluctuations are normal, patients are advised to report any significant changes or sudden spikes immediately for further evaluation.
How Can Dr. Mark Meyer Help You with Hypertension?
At Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine, we deliver personalized, expert care tailored to the complexities of high blood pressure and cardiovascular health. We champion early detection and precision management, blending advanced diagnostics with therapeutic strategies to preserve and enhance heart function. With a commitment to clinical excellence and individualized attention, our practice ensures that each patient receives the highest standard of medical care in an atmosphere of sophistication and trust.
Meet Dr. Mark Meyer
Mark L. Meyer, MD, FACP, FACC, is a board-certified physician and among the leading cardiologists and internists in New York. He is the founder of Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine in Midtown, Manhattan, serving patients throughout New York City. Dr. Meyer integrates different approaches to medicine to provide his patients expert and personalized care at every step of the health journey.
Book your appointment today and access the most exclusive personalized medical care in New York with Dr. Mark Meyer
