Description
Elevated blood pressure without a known cause. It occurs when the systolic pressure is consistently over 140 mm Hg, or the diastolic blood pressure is consistently over 90 mm Hg. Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood pumped, by the actions of the heart, and by the size and condition of the arteries. Untreated high blood pressure can cause narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis) and result in heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.
Symptoms
Usually hypertension causes no symptoms but if severe, headache, visual changes, and altered mental function may develop.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Serial blood pressure checks will be done to confirm the diagnosis. Other tests to rule out other causes of hypertension may be recommended.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Renal vascular ultrasound if indicated
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Serial blood pressure checks will be done to confirm the diagnosis. Other tests to rule out other causes of hypertension may be recommended.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Renal vascular ultrasound if indicated
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Treatment
Treatment may include: antihypertensive medications, loss of excess weight, dietary changes (especially, restriction of salt), lifestyle changes, and exercise. Certain medications can increase blood pressure and adjustments in these medications may be helpful.