Hypertension

Hypertension services offered in Santa Monica, CA

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the most common yet silent health conditions affecting millions of adults worldwide. Without proper management, it can lead to serious complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. At Commons Clinic in Santa Monica, California, Jenica L. Ortega, MD, offers expert evaluation and treatment for hypertension, utilizing a personalized, evidence-based approach. Dr. Ortega helps patients understand their numbers, manage risk factors, and protect their long-term heart health. To schedule your appointment, call the office or book online today.

Hypertension Q & A

What is hypertension?

Hypertension occurs when the force of your blood against the artery walls remains consistently too high, putting added strain on your heart and blood vessels. Over time, this increased pressure can damage your arteries and lead to life-threatening conditions like coronary artery disease, heart attack, stroke, or heart failure.

Blood pressure readings are measured in two numbers:

Systolic pressure (top number): The pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
Diastolic pressure (bottom number): The pressure when your heart rests between beats.

A normal reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg. Consistent readings of 130/80 mmHg or higher indicate hypertension and require medical evaluation and ongoing monitoring to prevent complications.

What causes high blood pressure?

Many factors can contribute to hypertension, including:

Family history of high blood pressure
Being overweight or obese, sleep apnea
High-sodium or high-fat diet
Lack of physical activity
Excessive alcohol consumption or Smoking
Chronic stress
Kidney disease, hormonal disorders, diabetes, or thyroid disorders
Aortic diseases (congential coarctation)

Certain medications and hormonal changes can also raise blood pressure levels over time. Because hypertension often develops gradually and rarely causes symptoms early on, routine screenings are key to prevention and early detection.

What are the symptoms of hypertension?

Most people with high blood pressure have no noticeable symptoms, which is why it’s often called the “silent killer.” In severe cases, you may experience headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, or nosebleeds—but these usually occur only when blood pressure reaches dangerous levels.

How is hypertension treated?

Dr. Ortega takes a personalized approach to hypertension management. After evaluating your medical history, lifestyle, and test results, she may recommend a combination of:

Lifestyle modifications such as a low-sodium diet, exercise, and stress reduction
Regular monitoring of your blood pressure
Prescription medications to control blood pressure and protect your heart

She may also recommend advanced diagnostic testing, including electrocardiograms (EKG/ECG) or echocardiograms, to assess heart function and detect early signs of damage. In some cases, additional blood or imaging tests may be used to evaluate aortic, kidney and vascular health.

With ongoing care and preventive strategies, you can successfully manage hypertension and maintain a healthy heart. To get started, contact Dr. Ortega or schedule your appointment online today.