Hypertension Specialist

Donald Cedric Wallerson, MD Our Services Hypertension

Donald Cedric Wallerson, MD

Cardiologist located in Bronx, NY

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for heart attack, heart disease, stroke, and other serious medical issues. Dr. Donald Wallerson is a top-rated cardiologist in The Bronx, NY, helping patients manage their high blood pressure so they can avoid serious medical complications and enjoy better health.

Hypertension Q & A

What causes hypertension?

Commonly referred to as high blood pressure, hypertension is a condition that occurs when the blood pressure exceeds a normal metric. Blood pressure is a measurement of the force that’s exerted by the blood as it circulates through the vessels. Pressure is measured with a blood pressure cuff and the measurement is provided in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Blood pressure measurements have two numbers - the first is a measurement of the force of the blood when the heart is beating, and the second measurement reflects the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats. The upper limit for a normal blood pressure is about 120/80 mmHg in most patients. Pressures above 120/90 mmHg are considered to be high or hypertensive. Pressures between those two measurements are “prehypertensive,” or at risk of becoming hypertensive.

What are the risk factors for hypertension?

High blood pressure is more common among people who:

  • are older
  • are obese
  • smoke
  • abuse alcohol
  • eat a diet high in unhealthy fats and sodium
  • are sedentary
  • have high cholesterol

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

High blood pressure usually causes no symptoms, which is why having regular blood pressure measurements is vitally important to identifying the disease before it causes more serious medical issues or even death.

What medical risks are associated with hypertension?

Hypertension has been associated with an array or serious medical conditions, including heart disease, heart attack, stroke and organ damage, as well as dementia.

How is high blood pressure treated?

High blood pressure requires ongoing management and routine doctor’s visits to ensure treatment stays on track. Most people benefit from a combination of medication and lifestyle changes, including:

  • quitting smoking
  • losing excess weight
  • being more physically active
  • eating a diet high in fiber and low in unhealthy fats and sodium
  • reducing stress

Some patients may be advised to have a blood pressure cuff at home so they can keep track of their blood pressure to help ensure their treatment is optimized for their needs.