Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most common chronic conditions, affecting nearly half of all Americans. At Vivify Medical in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, board-certified cardiologist Amnon Beniaminovitz, MD, provides integrative, holistic care for hypertension. Combining healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medication, he can help lower your numbers and improve your cardiovascular health. Call the New York City practice today to schedule hypertension treatment, or book your appointment online.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is a chronic condition occurring when the force of the blood pumping through your arteries remains abnormally high. Without treatment, it damages your arteries, increasing the risk of more serious complications, like heart attack and stroke.

Hypertension is called “the silent killer” because it rarely presents symptoms. As a result, many people with high blood pressure don’t realize anything is wrong. 

How is hypertension (high blood pressure) measured?

Hypertension is measured with a blood pressure monitor. This device features an inflatable cuff that fits around your upper arm and a pressure gauge. 

Definitions for high blood pressure vary globally, but in the United States, a reading of 130/80 mm/Hg or higher indicates hypertension. 

Are there different types of hypertension?

At Vivify Medical, Dr. Beniaminovitz treats both types of hypertension, including:

Primary hypertension

This type is the most common and accounts for about 90% of cases. It occurs because of lifestyle factors and aging.

Secondary hypertension

Secondary hypertension occurs because of underlying health problems or prescription medications. It’s typically more severe than primary hypertension and develops quickly.

What are the risk factors for hypertension?

Hypertension can affect anyone, but several factors increase your risk, including:

• Eating processed foods
• Using tobacco
• Drinking alcohol
• Being overweight
• Being 55 or older
• Living a sedentary lifestyle

Certain health problems also increase your risk. For example, you’re more likely to experience hypertension if you have diabetes or heart disease.

How is hypertension diagnosed?

At Vivify Medical hypertension is diagnosed during an in-office appointment. During your physical examination your blood pressure will be measured using a sphygmomanometer or blood pressure cuff.  If the reading is greater than 130/80 you may be asked to come back to the office for another visit to measure or be given a home blood pressure monitor to track your blood pressure readings at home.  

How is hypertension treated?

At Vivify Medical our philosophy is less meds more life and such, our first treatment plan for hypertension is conservative, holistic approach such as:    

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Cutting back on processed foods   

If more conservative bedrock lifestyle measures are insufficient, we may use medications to augment lifestyle optimization.  

Most people benefit from a combination of these treatments. We monitor your blood pressure at regular checkups and adjusts your care plan as needed.

Call Vivify today to schedule a hypertension consultation or book an appointment online.