HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE (HYPERTENSION)

Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure can quietly damage your cardiovascular health without apparent symptoms. Dr Francesco Lo Monaco, a London-based Preventive Cardiologist, provides expert diagnosis and personalised BP assessment to help identify risks early and support long-term heart health.

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High Blood Pressure Diagnosis and Treatment in London
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    • WHAT IS HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE)?

    Hypertension is a condition in which the pressure of the blood inside the arteries (vessels that carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body) remains constantly higher than normal (120/80mmHg). It puts immense pressure on the arterial walls and forces the heart to work harder. If left unmanaged, this heart condition can cause severe cardiovascular complications, including heart attack, stroke, and long-term damage to the heart and blood vessels.

    WHAT BLOOD PRESSURE RANGE IS CONSIDERED HIGH?

    High blood pressure is defined based on the upper (systolic) and lower (diastolic) readings. Blood pressure around 120/80 mmHg is considered normal. Readings above 140/90 mmHg indicate high blood pressure, while levels above 180/110 mmHg are classified as dangerously elevated.

    • Systolic BP: Measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood.
    • Diastolic BP: Measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes between beats and indicates resistance to blood flow.

    TYPES OF HYPERTENSION

    Magnetic Imaging of the heart is usually performed to detect a range of heart conditions, such as:

    • Primary Hypertension

      Primary, or Essential Hypertension, refers to elevated blood pressure that develops without an obvious cause and is often asymptomatic in its early stages. A comprehensive cardiac assessment is recommended to identify the underlying cause and prevent serious cardiovascular complications.

    • Secondary Hypertension

      Secondary Hypertension refers to a condition of high blood pressure caused by an identifiable underlying condition. Identifying the root cause through detailed cardiac investigations is essential identify the source of elevated BP and reduce long-term cardiovascular risk.

    • White-Coat Hypertension

      ‘White-Coat Hypertension’ or ‘White Coat Effect’ refers to a temporary rise in blood pressure caused by anxiety or stress during a medical checkup. Accurate diagnosis requires 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) to assess readings outside the clinical setting.

    • Resistant Hypertension

      Resistant hypertension refers to a condition in which a patient’s BP remains high despite the use of multiple antihypertensive medications. Dr Francesco Lo Monaco has extensive experience managing complex hypertension cases. His approach involves a careful review of medication and a comprehensive investigation, followed by personalised, evidence-based management based on his findings.
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    WHAT CAUSES PERSISTENT HYPERTENSION?

    Hypertension does not always have a single identifiable cause. However, several lifestyle, genetic, and medical factors can contribute to raising your blood pressure levels.

    Primary Hypertension

    • Obesity or excess body weight
    • Chronic stress
    • Diabetes
    • Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption
    • Diets high in salt, sugar, or unhealthy fats
    • Sedentary lifestyle
    • Family history

    Secondary Hypertension

    • Congenital heart conditions
    • Chronic kidney disease
    • Thyroid disorders
    • Certain medications

    WHAT ARE THE COMMON SYMPTOMS OF HYPERTENSION?

    High blood pressure often develops without noticeable symptoms. Many people remain unaware they have hypertension until blood pressure levels become significantly raised or complications begin to develop. However, in some cases, individuals may experience the following symptoms in high BP:

    • Nausea
    • Severe and Persistent Headaches
    • Blurred Vision
    • Buzzing in the ears
    • Nosebleeds
    • Dizziness or Lightheadedness
    • Shortness of Breath
    • Anxiety
    • Irregular Heart Rhythm (Arrhythmia)

    WHO IS AT A HIGHER RISK OF DEVELOPING HIGH BP?

    The risk of developing hypertension increases with a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and medical factors. Obesity, inactive lifestyle, chronic stress, and smoking can increase your BP. Moreover, a diet high in salt and processed foods as well as underlying health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and high cholesterol can also contribute to raising your BP with time. 

    WHAT TO EXPECT IN YOUR INITIAL CONSULTATION?

    During your initial visit, a hypertension specialist will carry out a comprehensive assessment to understand your blood pressure patterns and overall cardiovascular health. It includes a thorough physical examination, medical history, blood pressure monitoring, and analysis of lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and alcohol intake. Besides that, crucial cardiovascular risk markers may also be assessed, such as CBC and cholesterol levels.

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    FURTHER INVESTIGATIONS FOR HYPERTENSION

    To confirm a suspected hypertension, your cardiologist may recommend an ECG, an echocardiogram, or 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring. These diagnostic tests assess your heart structure, rhythm, and daily blood pressure patterns to support accurate diagnosis and monitoring.

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    DR MONACO’S PREVENTIVE APPROACH TO HYPERTENSION

    Dr Francesco Lo Monaco’s preventive cardiology approach to hypertension is based on early risk identification and precise lifestyle optimisation. By refining daily habits, many patients can achieve meaningful blood pressure control while reducing their risk of heart attack and stroke. Dr Lo Monaco’s personalised guidance helps patients integrate effective strategies such as regular physical activity, heart-healthy nutrition, weight and stress management, and improved sleep for their cardiovascular wellness.

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    FAQs

    High blood pressure on its own can not be classified as a disability. However, poorly controlled hypertension can lead to serious complications, including heart failure, stroke, chronic kidney disease, and other long-term cardiovascular impairments.

    Seizures can occur in rare cases when blood pressure reaches dangerously high levels, that can damage brain function.

    High blood pressure can cause dizziness, especially when levels are significantly high or fluctuate rapidly.

    Menopause can increase the risk of high BP due to hormonal changes, weight gain, and changes in blood vessel elasticity. But, it is not the case with every woman. 

    Hypertension itself does not usually cause fatigue, but uncontrolled hypertension and its complications can contribute to persistent tiredness.

    Yes, some people complain of headaches or migraines in severely high BP, especially during hypertensive episodes.

    Driving is generally safe if blood pressure is controlled and no symptoms are present. However, you must avoid driving if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, chest discomfort, or reduced concentration.

    Regular blood pressure monitoring is recommended to track trends over time. Individuals with hypertension must do home BP monitoring and, when advised by a cardiologist, 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring for a more comprehensive assessment. 

    Severely raised blood pressure can cause visual disturbances, including flashing lights, due to pressure in the blood vessels of the eyes (hypertensive retinopathy).

    Viral infections can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure due to inflammation, fever, pain, or physical stress on the body. Blood pressure usually returns to normal once the infection is treated.

    Rest in a comfortable position, remain calm, avoid physical or emotional stress, and follow your doctor’s prescribed advice. Seek urgent medical attention if blood pressure remains severely elevated or symptoms worsen.

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