Hypertension
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Gary D. Schwartz, MD, PC
Internal Medicine Physician located in Hackensack, NJ
More than 100 million Americans suffer from hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. And many more have it but don't yet know it. Gary D. Schwartz, MD, in Hackensack, New Jersey, is an experienced internal medicine physician focused on providing personalized care for his patients. With his concierge medicine services, Dr. Schwartz can give you the specialized care needed to diagnose and manage chronic conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and other cardiovascular care services. Call Gary D. Schwartz, MD, today or book your appointment online.
Hypertension Q & A
What is hypertension?
Hypertension occurs when the pressure of the blood against the walls of your arteries is consistently high. The measurement of this pressure consists of two numbers:
Systolic pressure
This top number on your reading measures the pressure on your blood vessels as your heart beats.
Diastolic pressure
This bottom number on your reading measures the pressure on your blood vessels between heartbeats.
If untreated, hypertension can increase your heart's workload and damage your blood vessels. This increases your risk of heart attack, kidney failure, and stroke. Dr. Schwartz follows a concierge care model that allows him to provide comprehensive cardiovascular care to each patient.
What are the risk factors for hypertension?
Risk factors for hypertension include:
- Physical inactivity
- Carrying excess weight
- A diet high in sodium and low in potassium
- Stress
Sleep apnea, diabetes, kidney disease, or hypertension may also increase your risk of developing hypertension. Dr. Schwartz provides cardiovascular care programs tailored to your personal needs.
How do I know if I have hypertension?
Hypertension is often referred to as the "silent killer" because there are no symptoms, which is why Dr. Schwartz checks your blood pressure every time you come in to see him.
He can then tell you if you have hypertension based on your blood pressure reading. Blood pressure readings fall into one of three categories:
- Normal blood pressure: Less than 120 mm Hg/80 mm Hg
- Elevated blood pressure: 120-129 mm Hg/80 mm Hg or less
- High blood pressure: 140 mm Hg or higher/90 mm Hg or higher
A single episode of high blood pressure doesn’t mean you have hypertension. Dr. Schwartz monitors your numbers at your regular visits. He may have you continue to check at home through a home testing machine or at your local pharmacy. Your concierge membership allows you to see him as often as you need.
How is hypertension managed?
Dr. Schwartz uses a combination of methods to help you gain control of your blood pressure, including:
- Nutrition counseling
- Fitness plan
- Mind-body relaxation techniques
- Medication
Dr. Schwartz emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes to improve your blood pressure, which is why diet, exercise, and stress reduction are such an important part of his treatment plans. He also assists with weight loss, which can help to reduce your blood pressure significantly.
Hypertension can be an important warning signal that your cardiovascular system is vulnerable, but taking steps to gain control of your numbers reduces your risk of developing complications in the future.
If you have concerns about hypertension or any type of cardiovascular care, call Dr. Schwartz or book an appointment online for personalized, concierge care.
