Hypertension, or high blood pressure, often develops silently but can put serious strain on your heart and blood vessels. At California Cardiac Institute, we help you detect and manage hypertension early for better long-term health.
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls remains consistently too high. Over time, this strain can damage blood vessels and vital organs, increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. Because hypertension often develops without obvious symptoms, it is sometimes called the “silent killer.” At California Cardiac Institute, our physicians emphasize early detection through regular screenings, education, and preventive care to support longevity.
Signs & Symptoms of Hypertension:
- Headaches that are frequent or severe
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity
- Blurred or double vision
- Chest pain or tightness
- Fatigue or confusion
- Nosebleeds that occur more often than usual
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
What Causes Hypertension?
Hypertension develops when the arteries become narrowed, stiffened, or overloaded, forcing your heart to pump harder to circulate blood. Over time, this pressure damages the vessel walls, raising your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other complications. While some people may inherit a tendency toward high blood pressure, various lifestyle and health factors can also increase your risk, including:
- Family history of hypertension
- High-sodium or unhealthy diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Being overweight or obese
- Chronic stress
- Smoking or excessive alcohol use
- Advancing age
- Underlying conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or sleep apnea
Heart Conditions Can't Wait
If hypertension is left untreated, the constant strain on your blood vessels and heart can lead to serious complications. Over time, high blood pressure can damage arteries, making them more prone to atherosclerosis, which increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. It can also cause the heart muscle to weaken, leading to heart failure, or place dangerous stress on your kidneys, eyes, and brain. That’s why addressing hypertension early is essential to protecting your long-term health and preventing life-threatening events.
How is Hypertension Diagnosed and Treated?
When you come to us with concerns about hypertension, we begin by reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle. Our physicians will check your blood pressure, often over multiple visits or with monitoring devices, to confirm a diagnosis. We may also recommend blood tests, imaging, or cardiac evaluations to identify any related heart concerns. Once we understand your health profile, we create a personalized treatment plan.
Your hypertension treatment options may include:
- Prescription medications to control blood pressure
- Lifestyle guidance on diet, exercise, and stress reduction
- Weight management support
- Smoking cessation and alcohol moderation programs
- Regular monitoring with follow-up appointments
Schedule Your Consultation
California Cardiac Institute is committed to helping you detect, manage, and prevent the complications of hypertension. If you have symptoms like frequent headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath, don’t delay seeking care. Our physicians combine advanced medicine with lifestyle guidance to protect your heart. With same-day appointments and acceptance of walk-ins, you can get the care you need without waiting. Schedule your consultation today for hypertension diagnosis and treatment at our Glendale, California, location.
