19 Harley Street, London, W1G 9QJ

Understanding Hypertension: Causes, Risks, and Advanced Diagnostic Solutions

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a silent yet significant health concern affecting millions worldwide. Often referred to as a “silent killer,” hypertension can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage if left unmanaged. At the London Centre for Advanced Cardiology, we are committed to helping you understand, diagnose, and manage this condition with cutting-edge diagnostic tools and personalised care.

  • What Causes Hypertension?

    Hypertension occurs when the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. While the exact cause is often unclear, several factors can contribute to its development:

    1. Lifestyle Factors:

      • Poor diet, particularly one high in salt and saturated fats.

      • Lack of physical activity.

      • Excessive alcohol consumption.

      • Smoking or tobacco use.

      • Chronic stress.

  1. Medical Conditions:

    • Obesity or being overweight.

    • Diabetes.

    • Kidney disease.

    • Sleep apnea.

    • Hormonal disorders, such as thyroid problems.

  2. Genetic Predisposition:

    • A family history of hypertension can increase your risk.

  3. Age and Demographics:

    • The risk of hypertension increases with age.

    • Certain ethnic groups, such as those of African or South Asian descent, are at higher risk.

Understanding the root cause of your hypertension is the first step toward effective management. At our clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of diagnostic tests to identify the underlying factors and tailor a treatment plan to your unique needs.

Advanced Diagnostic Tests for Hypertension

At the London Centre for Advanced Cardiology, we utilise state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based practices to diagnose hypertension accurately. Our diagnostic services include:

  1. 24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM):
    This test measures your blood pressure over 24 hours, providing a detailed picture of how it fluctuates throughout the day and night. It helps identify patterns that might be missed during a single clinic visit.

  2. Electrocardiogram (ECG):
    An ECG assesses your heart’s electrical activity, helping us detect any abnormalities that may be linked to hypertension or its complications.

  3. Echocardiogram:
    This ultrasound of the heart provides detailed images of its structure and function, allowing us to evaluate the impact of high blood pressure on your heart.

  4. Blood Tests:
    We conduct comprehensive blood tests to check for underlying conditions such as high cholesterol, diabetes, or kidney dysfunction, which may contribute to hypertension.

     

Why Choose the London Centre for Advanced Cardiology?

Our team of leading cardiologists and healthcare professionals is dedicated to providing personalised, patient-centred care. We combine advanced diagnostic tools with a holistic approach to ensure you receive the most effective treatment plan. Whether you’re seeking to understand your risk factors, manage an existing condition, or prevent future complications, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Take Control of Your Heart Health Today

Hypertension is a manageable condition, but early detection and intervention are key. If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or simply want to take a proactive approach to your heart health, contact the London Centre for Advanced Cardiology today. Let us help you on your journey to better health and well-being.

Do you have any questions or would like to book an appointment? Call us on 0207 580 3145 or click here to book online.