Because high blood pressure comes with few or no apparent symptoms, it often goes undiagnosed. But without treatment, high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke. Early detection is the best way to prevent heart disease and other dangerous health conditions. At her multi-specialty clinic in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Rimma Gelbert routinely checks your blood pressure as part of your regular wellness check-ups. Schedule your annual exam online or by calling Rimma Gelbert Medical PC today.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the long-term force of your blood flowing through your blood vessels is too strong. The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your arteries, the higher your blood pressure will be.
Your blood pressure is determined both by the amount of blood your heart pumps and the level of resistance to that blood flow in your arteries.
Because it has few noticeable symptoms, high blood pressure may go undetected for years. By the time it’s diagnosed, your risk of stroke and heart disease may have already increased significantly.
Most adults have essential, or primary, hypertension that develops gradually. Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure caused by another underlying medical issue or condition, including thyroid problems and sleep apnea.
Certain medications can also cause secondary high blood pressure. Risk factors for high blood pressure include:
Dr. Gelbert checks your blood pressure at every appointment (more frequently if you’re at risk for cardiovascular disease or have high blood pressure). She conducts a physical exam and may order additional tests to check for signs of heart disease.
Treatment for hypertension generally involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. An ideal weight, healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and natural stress relief techniques, are all great ways to prevent or manage high blood pressure.
Many different medications effectively control hypertension. Alpha blockers, beta blockers, and alpha-beta blockers are among the most widely-prescribed. Dr. Gelbert monitors you closely to ensure your medication works well and without unwanted side effects.
For a blood pressure screening or to schedule a comprehensive wellness exam with Dr. Gelbert, call or click today.