Hypertension Specialist
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Marc L. Ladenheim, MD, FACC
Cardiologist & Internist located in Burbank, CA
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is considered a silent killer. Because you can have high blood pressure for years without developing symptoms, significant damage can take place before you even suspect there’s a problem. Dr. Marc L. Ladenheim offers preventive annual exams with blood pressure screenings to detect and treat high blood pressure early, as well as ongoing hypertension management to prevent risk of heart disease. If you live in the Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Valley Village, Encino, Tarzana, Toluca Lake, Chatsworth, North Hollywood (NoHo), Valley Glen, Sun Valley, or Burbank, California area, contact him at his practice, Marc L. Ladenheim, MD, FACC, for a proactive screening today.
Hypertension Q & A
How common is high blood pressure?
Hypertension is very common, affecting approximately 75 million Americans. That means one out of three American adults suffers from hypertension.
What are the signs and symptoms of high blood pressure?
In most cases, people with high blood pressure have no symptoms at all, deeming this disease a silent killer. If you know you have high blood pressure and wait for symptoms before seeking treatment, you’re risking your life.
For some people, the only time high blood pressure produces symptoms is during a life-threatening emergency called a hypertensive crisis. In this case, you may experience very high blood pressure accompanied by a severe headache or nosebleed.
When should I seek treatment?
If you have not been diagnosed with hypertension and you notice your blood pressure is high, rest and retake your blood pressure 10 minutes later. If it’s still high, you should seek medical treatment.
If you take medication for high blood pressure and you notice that your blood pressure is no longer within the ranges your doctor has defined, you should notify your doctor right away so he or she can evaluate your treatment plan.
Finally, if your blood pressure is over 180/110 — even if just one number is over — seek medical attention in the emergency room or urgent care immediately.
What are the risks of untreated hypertension?
High blood pressure puts strain on your blood vessels and your heart. Over time, this extra pressure or strain can increase your risk of suffering a stroke, heart attack, kidney disease, or even dementia.
What can I do to reduce my risk of hypertension?
Hypertension risk can be easily reduced by doing the following:
- See your doctor regularly
- Choose a healthy diet
- Maintain a weight within healthy ranges
- Stay physically active
- Limit your alcohol intake to one drink per day or less
- Quit smoking if you smoke tobacco
- Manage your diabetes
How is high blood pressure treated?
Treatment of high blood pressure might include:
- Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, diet changes, reduced alcohol intake, routine physical activity, and stress management are all ways to improve your blood pressure.
- Medications: Diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, or other medications can lower your blood pressure.
