High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is one of the most common and serious risk factors for heart disease. Often called the “silent killer,” it usually has no obvious symptoms, but over time, it can lead to heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and other health complications. The good news is that high blood pressure is manageable with the right approach.
At Epic Cardiology, we help patients understand their risk, identify the root causes of hypertension, and create a personalized plan to bring blood pressure under control. Our locations serve communities throughout Greater Los Angeles, including Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood.
What Is High Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It’s recorded as two numbers:
- Systolic pressure – the top number, measuring pressure when the heart beats
- Diastolic pressure – the bottom number, measuring pressure when the heart rests between beats
Normal blood pressure is generally below 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure is typically diagnosed when readings consistently reach 130/80 mmHg or higher. Over time, this extra pressure can strain the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of serious cardiovascular problems.
Common Causes of High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can develop for a variety of reasons. In many cases, it results from a combination of lifestyle and health factors. Some of the most common include:
Unhealthy Diet
- Diets high in sodium (salt), saturated fats, and processed foods
- Low intake of fruits, vegetables, and potassium-rich foods
Physical Inactivity
- Lack of regular movement can lead to weight gain and stiffened blood vessels
Excess Weight
- Extra body weight forces the heart to work harder and increases resistance in the arteries
Stress
- Chronic stress may contribute to elevated blood pressure levels over time
Smoking and Alcohol Use
- Tobacco damages blood vessels, and excessive alcohol intake can raise blood pressure
Family History and Age
- Genetics can play a role, and blood pressure tends to rise with age
Underlying Health Conditions
- Kidney disease, sleep apnea, and hormonal imbalances can contribute to hypertension
In some cases, high blood pressure has no identifiable cause. This is known as primary hypertension, and it often develops gradually over time.
Why Does Controlling High Blood Pressure Matter?
Even if you feel fine, uncontrolled high blood pressure silently puts your health at risk. Over time, it can lead to:
- Heart attack and stroke
- Heart failure or irregular heart rhythms
- Vision loss
- Kidney damage
- Cognitive decline or memory problems
The earlier you identify and treat high blood pressure, the more you reduce the risk of long-term complications.
The Health Benefits of Controlling High Blood Pressure
- Protects Your Heart – Reduces the strain on your heart muscle and arteries
- Prevents Complications – Lowers the risk of stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss
- Improves Energy and Wellness – Supports better circulation and overall health
- Reduces Medication Needs – Lifestyle changes can sometimes lower or eliminate the need for blood pressure medications
- Enhances Longevity – Helps you maintain long-term health and independence
How to Control High Blood Pressure
1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet
- Choose fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Limit processed foods, excess salt, and added sugars
- Consider the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan
2. Exercise Regularly
- Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week
- Walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing are all excellent options
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Losing even a small amount of weight can have a significant impact on blood pressure
4. Reduce Stress
- Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or yoga
- Carve out time for rest and self-care
5. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Tobacco
- Moderate or avoid alcohol and quit smoking to support heart health
6. Monitor Your Blood Pressure
- Check your numbers regularly at home or with your provider
- Keep a log to track changes and patterns
7. Take Medication as Prescribed
- If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your provider may recommend medication
- Never stop or adjust your medication without consulting your healthcare team
Taking the Next Step
If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure or are concerned about your risk, it’s important to take action. Small changes can make a big difference when guided by the right care team.
Epic Cardiology offers personalized evaluations and treatment plans to help you manage your blood pressure and improve your heart health. Our locations serve patients throughout the Greater Los Angeles area, including Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood. To learn more about services near you, contact us today to schedule your appointment and take control of your cardiovascular wellness.