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Patient Education

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Calm, attentive care that brings your blood pressure into a healthy range and keeps it there.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most common and manageable conditions in primary care — yet because it rarely causes symptoms, it often goes unnoticed until it has quietly strained the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels. In her Los Angeles Direct Primary Care practice, Dr. Golian combines careful blood pressure monitoring with personalized lifestyle and medication plans to lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

Most people with high blood pressure feel completely well, which is why screening matters. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
  • Headaches, particularly in the morning
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Blurred or changing vision
  • Shortness of breath with exertion
  • Chest discomfort or a pounding sensation in the chest, neck, or ears
  • Nosebleeds (uncommon, usually with very high readings)

Causes & Risk Factors

Blood pressure tends to rise from a mix of genetics, lifestyle, and other health conditions. Common contributors include:
  • Family history of hypertension or heart disease
  • A diet high in sodium and low in fruits and vegetables
  • Excess weight and limited physical activity
  • Smoking and frequent alcohol use
  • Chronic stress and poor sleep
  • Related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or kidney disease

How Dr. Golian Manages Hypertension

Diagnosis begins with accurate, repeated measurements — often confirmed with at-home readings — alongside cholesterol and metabolic labs to understand your full cardiovascular picture and screen for related conditions like type 2 diabetes.

Treatment usually starts with a tailored lifestyle modification plan — sustainable changes to diet, movement, and sleep. When medication is warranted, Dr. Golian selects and adjusts antihypertensive therapy thoughtfully, monitoring closely so you reach your target with the fewest side effects.

Living Well With Controlled Blood Pressure

Hypertension is a lifelong condition, but with the right plan it becomes a quiet, well-managed part of your routine rather than a daily worry. Regular check-ins, home monitoring, and steady habits keep your numbers stable over time.

As part of a broader approach to cardiovascular disease prevention, Dr. Golian helps you protect your heart through every season of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

1What is considered high blood pressure?
In general, a reading at or above 130/80 mmHg is considered elevated, but a diagnosis is based on multiple readings over time rather than a single measurement. Dr. Golian reviews your full pattern, including home readings, before recommending treatment.
2Can I lower my blood pressure without medication?
Many people can meaningfully improve their numbers through diet, regular activity, better sleep, and reducing sodium and alcohol. Dr. Golian always starts with a personalized lifestyle plan and adds medication only when it's needed to reach a safe target.
3Why do I need to keep taking medication if I feel fine?
High blood pressure usually causes no symptoms, so feeling well doesn't mean it's controlled. Stopping medication can allow it to climb again, so any changes should always be made together with your physician.
4How often should I have my blood pressure checked?
It depends on your readings and risk factors — from once a year if you're healthy to more frequent visits and home monitoring while we fine-tune treatment. Dr. Golian will set a schedule tailored to you.
5Does Dr. Golian coordinate with specialists for blood pressure problems?
Yes. When more complex or resistant hypertension is involved, she can arrange cardiology or nephrology referrals including specialists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and stay closely involved in your ongoing care.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information on this site is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this site does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal guidance. If this is an emergency, call 911. Mentions of medications, devices, or procedures are informational and not endorsements. Full medical disclaimer.

†Some listed indications involve investigational/off-label use. Learn more.