High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure often has no symptoms, which is why it’s important to have regular health screenings with your primary care provider. Some individuals with high blood pressure may experience headaches, shortness of breath or nosebleeds.

• Primary hypertension: When you have high blood pressure and there is no identifiable cause, this is called primary hypertension. A combination of genetic and lifestyle factors may cause primary hypertension. In most individuals, primary hypertension causes the blood pressure to rise gradually over a long period of time.
• Secondary hypertension: When high blood pressure is caused by another condition or some other issue, it is called secondary hypertension. Some health conditions, such as kidney failure, sleep apnea, congenital heart defects or hormonal imbalances, can cause blood pressure to rise. Certain prescription drugs and illegal drugs can also cause high blood pressure.

For many people, high blood pressure can be managed effectively by their primary care provider. Following the care plan set out by your primary care provider and attending regular follow-up appointments are critical to manage high blood pressure and avoid issues down the road.

Those with high blood pressure may want to consider seeing a cardiologist if they:

• Have a family history of heart disease.
• Are 65 or older.
• Have other chronic conditions that are linked to heart disease, such as diabetes, kidney disease, sleep apnea or high cholesterol.
• Have had a heart attack or stroke before.
• Cannot decrease their blood pressure through medication management.

In rare cases, a person can make lifestyle changes, take their medication as prescribed, and still not maintain a normal blood pressure. When this happens, Georgia Heart Institute offers a specialized program through our Resistant Hypertension Center with unique therapies that can help patients lower their blood pressure.