High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the most common cardiovascular conditions affecting adults in the United States. Often called the “silent killer,” this chronic condition occurs when the force of blood against artery walls remains consistently elevated over time. Without proper management, high blood pressure can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, kidney damage, and stroke.
Board-certified physician Dr. Chethana Rao provides expert diagnosis and treatment for high blood pressure at Prima Medicine, with convenient locations in Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons, Virginia. As a Washingtonian magazine Top Doc, Dr. Rao specializes in chronic disease management and preventive care, offering treatment plans tailored to each patient’s health needs.
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic pressure (when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (when the heart rests between beats). A normal reading is typically below 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure is diagnosed when readings consistently measure 130/80 mmHg or higher.
Stage 1 hypertension ranges from 130-139/80-89 mmHg, while Stage 2 hypertension is 140/90 mmHg or above. Regular monitoring is crucial because most people with high blood pressure experience no symptoms until serious damage has occurred.
Recognizing the Symptoms
While high blood pressure typically develops without noticeable symptoms, some individuals may experience warning signs when their blood pressure reaches dangerously high levels:
- Severe headaches, particularly in the morning
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Vision changes or blurred vision
- Fatigue or confusion
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially in combination, seek medical attention promptly.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
High blood pressure develops from various factors, some controllable and others not. Understanding your risk helps guide prevention and treatment strategies:
- Age (risk increases after 45 for men, 65 for women)
- Family history of hypertension
- Obesity or being overweight
- Sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity
- High sodium intake and poor dietary habits
- Excessive alcohol consumption or tobacco use
- Chronic stress and anxiety
- Diabetes and metabolic disorders
- Kidney disease or kidney problems
- Thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism
- Sleep apnea and other sleep disorders
- Certain medications, including birth control pills and decongestants
Why Choose Prima Medicine?
Prima Medicine offers comprehensive hypertension care within a patient-centered medical home. As part of Privia Medical Group, a physician-led, multispecialty network, we provide coordinated care that addresses all aspects of your health. Dr. Rao’s expertise in chronic disease management ensures you receive evidence-based treatment tailored to your specific needs and health goals.
Our practice utilizes advanced health management technologies and offers same-day or next-day appointments when you need them, along with weekend hours for your convenience. We take the time to educate you about your condition, answer your questions thoroughly, and develop sustainable lifestyle strategies that fit your daily routine. We are committed to helping you achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure levels for life.
Schedule Your Hypertension Consultation Today
Prima Medicine in Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons, VA, provides expert diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of hypertension. Call our office at (703) 870-3750 or book an appointment online today. Take control of your cardiovascular health with care from Dr. Chethana Rao and our experienced medical team.
