The Hypertension Clinic at Parkview Heart Institute is here to provide care to those patients who have been diagnosed with hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure.
The Hypertension Clinic provides:
- Coordinated care by the Hypertension Clinic team, beginning with an evaluation by a cardiologist, pharmacist and other members of the clinic team in order to identify the best treatment plan for you.
- Specialized treatments all in one convenient location.
- Education about high blood pressure, your medications, dietary considerations, smoking cessation and physical activities to reduce your blood pressure.
- Answers to your questions.
What is hypertension?
Hypertension, or blood pressures which are above 140/90 regularly, increases your risk for various diseases by putting undue pressure against the walls of your arteries.
Hypertension symptoms
If you have hypertension, you may not experience any signs or symptoms. A few people with high blood pressure may have headaches, shortness of breath or nosebleeds, but these signs and symptoms are not specific and usually don't occur until high blood pressure has reached a dangerous, life-threatening stage. High blood pressure should be controlled so it does not lead to more serious health conditions over time.
Hypertension causes
Most commonly, hypertension can be attributed to a diet high in salt, fat, and/or cholesterol.
Conditions which can lead to secondary hypertension include:
- Chronic conditions such as kidney and hormone problems
- Sleep apnea
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Family history
Hypertension risk factors
Certain factors may increase your risk of developing hypertension.
- Age
- Race
- Family history
- Being overweight or obese
- Not being physically active
- Using tobacco
- Too much salt (sodium) in your diet
- Too little potassium in your diet
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Stress
- Certain chronic conditions
Hypertension treatments
When detected early, some people may control their symptoms and reduce their risk for heart disease simply by improving lifestyle habits, such as:
- Stop smoking
- Adopt a healthy low-fat, low-salt diet
- Avoid alcohol
- Minimize caffeine
- Maintain healthy blood sugar levels
- Exercise regularly to achieve a healthy weight
- Manage stress
If treatment is needed, your physician may refer you to the Hypertension Clinic at Parkview Heart Institute where the care team will focus on managing your blood pressure in order to maintain a safe and consistent range. The team will discuss which therapies will be most appropriate for you.
Lifestyle changes
- Controlling your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose levels
- Becoming physically active
- Following a heart-healthy diet plan, including a low-sodium diet
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Managing your stress
- Quitting smoking
Appropriate medications
Further testing as required
Hypertension should not be ignored. Regular check-ups by your primary care physician give you the best chance of effectively managing your symptoms.
All patients referred to the Hypertension Clinic will be evaluated and managed by our team of specialized care providers.
Hypertension Clinic appointments and referrals
Find information for patients and medical professionals about how to be referred and what to expect as a new patient.
