Hypertension

Introduction: Why Hypertension Needs a New Approach

Hypertension, often referred to as the “silent killer,” affects millions of people across the globe. At Patients Medical in New York City, we take a comprehensive approach to managing high blood pressure, going beyond conventional treatments that only focus on symptoms. By combining functional medicine with holistic practices, we aim to treat the root causes of hypertension, helping you achieve better health and balance.

Hypertension can significantly increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other serious conditions. At Patients Medical, we not only help you control your blood pressure but also provide solutions to improve your overall cardiovascular health.

What Is Hypertension?

Hypertension is a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. It often has no symptoms, but over time, it can cause significant health issues. There are two types:

  • Primary Hypertension: This type has no identifiable cause but tends to develop gradually over many years. It is the most common form.
  • Secondary Hypertension: Caused by an underlying condition, such as kidney disease or hormonal disorders, secondary hypertension can develop quickly and may be more severe.

Common Symptoms of Hypertension

Hypertension is often called a silent condition because it typically doesn’t present symptoms until it’s advanced. However, some warning signs may include:

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice immediately.

Root Causes: Why Did You Develop Hypertension?

Functional medicine aims to uncover the “why” behind chronic illnesses. In the case of hypertension, common underlying causes include:

  • Dietary Factors: Excessive sodium intake, high processed food consumption, or low potassium levels.
  • Chronic Stress: Stress increases cortisol, leading to increased blood pressure.
  • Obesity: Extra weight can increase the workload on the heart and raise blood pressure.
  • Hormonal Imbalance: Hormones, especially aldosterone and thyroid hormones, can influence blood pressure regulation.
  • Inflammation: Chronic inflammation from poor diet or lifestyle choices can damage blood vessels and raise blood pressure.
  • Genetics: A family history of hypertension may increase your risk.
  • Kidney Disease: The kidneys help regulate blood pressure; dysfunction in these organs can lead to hypertension.

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we employ a wide range of diagnostic tools to understand what’s contributing to your hypertension:

Blood pressure readings (systolic/diastolic)

24-hour blood pressure monitoring

Renal function tests (kidney health)

Hormonal panels (aldosterone, thyroid, cortisol)

Inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, homocysteine)

Sodium, potassium, and other electrolyte levels

Vascular health assessments (arterial stiffness)

Echocardiogram for heart function evaluation

Integrative Treatments for Hypertension

We focus on natural, evidence-based solutions to lower blood pressure, personalized to your health needs:

Nutritional Therapy

We offer tailored nutritional plans to support cardiovascular health, including:

  • DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) or Mediterranean-inspired diets
  • Sodium reduction protocols
  • Nutrient-dense, heart-healthy meals
  • Omega-3 supplementation

 

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

Certain herbs and supplements can aid in lowering blood pressure, such as:

  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
  • Magnesium
  • Hawthorn berry
  • Omega-3 fatty acids

These supplements are always recommended in a physician-supervised, individualized approach.

Stress Management

Stress management plays a crucial role in managing hypertension. We offer techniques such as:

  • Meditation and mindfulness
  • Acupuncture for relaxation
  • Yoga and breathing exercises
  • Adaptogenic herbs to balance cortisol levels

 

Lifestyle Modifications

We provide guidance on weight management, exercise programs, and healthy sleep practices, all key to managing hypertension.

IV Vitamin Therapy

Custom IVs containing magnesium, B vitamins, and antioxidants support cardiovascular health and reduce stress on the heart.

Real Case Study: John’s Success Story

John, 54, had been on medication for high blood pressure for years without seeing significant improvement. His blood pressure was consistently high, and he struggled with fatigue and dizziness. After testing, we discovered chronic inflammation, elevated cortisol levels, and nutrient deficiencies.

We created a 3-month integrative plan that included:

  • Anti-inflammatory meal plans
  • Adaptogenic herbs for stress support
  • Nutrient IVs to boost magnesium and vitamin D
  • Meditation and lifestyle counseling

Three months later, John’s blood pressure was within the normal range, his energy had increased, and he no longer needed medications with his doctor’s approval.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

In many cases, yes. Through dietary changes, stress reduction, weight management, and holistic treatments, hypertension can often be managed or even reversed. Functional medicine focuses on addressing root causes to lower blood pressure effectively and sustainably.

Some patients may be able to reduce or eliminate their medication under the supervision of their healthcare provider. However, for others, medications may continue alongside integrative treatments to provide enhanced benefits and maintain blood pressure within a healthy range.

Common causes of hypertension include poor diet (especially high sodium), chronic stress, obesity, lack of physical activity, hormonal imbalances, excessive alcohol intake, and a family history of high blood pressure. Certain conditions like kidney disease or thyroid dysfunction can also contribute.

Yes, stress significantly affects blood pressure. Stress increases cortisol levels, which can cause the blood vessels to constrict, leading to a rise in blood pressure. Long-term chronic stress can further elevate these risks, making it crucial to incorporate stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness, yoga, or acupuncture.

Absolutely. A diet high in sodium, processed foods, and refined sugars can contribute to high blood pressure. A diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can help lower and maintain normal blood pressure. The DASH diet, for example, is specifically designed to support heart health and blood pressure regulation.

Hypertension often doesn’t present any symptoms, which is why it’s called the “silent killer.” Regular monitoring of your blood pressure is essential to detect if it’s consistently high. The normal range for blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. Anything above this, especially readings above 140/90 mmHg, indicates hypertension.

Yes, several supplements have been shown to help lower blood pressure. These include magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, CoQ10, garlic extract, and hawthorn berry. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplementation, especially if you are already on medication.

Acupuncture can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and balance the body’s energy, which may contribute to lowering blood pressure. Studies suggest that regular acupuncture treatments can help lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in some individuals, especially when combined with other lifestyle changes.

Yes, poor sleep quality or sleep apnea can lead to higher blood pressure. Sleep plays a key role in regulating stress hormones and supporting cardiovascular health. Getting adequate rest, addressing sleep disorders, and establishing a healthy sleep routine can significantly help manage hypertension.

While some people may still require medication to manage high blood pressure, many can reduce their reliance on medication by adopting lifestyle changes. Integrative therapies, including diet adjustments, stress management, exercise, and supplements, can play a vital role in keeping blood pressure within a healthy range. Always work with your healthcare provider when making adjustments to your treatment plan.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

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To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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