High Blood Pressure Care in the Charleston Area

What Is Hypertension and Why It Matters

Hypertension — chronically elevated blood pressure — is the leading modifiable risk factor for heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure. Most patients with hypertension have no symptoms, which is why it is called the silent killer. It is diagnosed when blood pressure consistently reads 130/80 mmHg or higher. Stage 2 hypertension (140/90 or higher) significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events without treatment.

Hypertension is extremely common in South Carolina — the state has among the highest rates of hypertension and hypertension-related cardiovascular mortality in the country, particularly among African American men.

Hypertension Management at Hope Integrative Medicine

Your initial evaluation includes a comprehensive blood pressure assessment, review of your cardiovascular risk factors, medication history, and relevant labs (either recent results or ordered at your first visit). For straightforward hypertension, many patients can be evaluated and start medication at their first appointment.

We manage a wide range of antihypertensive medications including ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, and thiazide diuretics. We coordinate with cardiologists when specialty referral is appropriate. For patients who also have diabetes, kidney disease, or elevated cardiovascular risk, we manage these conditions as part of an integrated care plan rather than in isolation.

Hypertension and Mental Health — The Connection

Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression all contribute directly to elevated blood pressure. Patients managing hypertension alongside anxiety or depression benefit from a practice that addresses both — which is exactly what Hope Integrative Medicine's integrated model provides. One chart, one coordinating team, no gaps between your physical and mental health care.

Prescriptions and Safety

Telehealth visits are evaluation and management visits. A prescription can be part of your treatment when your provider, using professional judgment and deciding together with you after weighing the risks and benefits, finds it medically necessary. Whether you are seen in person in West Ashley or by telehealth, prescriptions are sent electronically to your pharmacy.

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for chest pain or pressure, trouble breathing, signs of stroke, a severe allergic reaction, or severe abdominal pain.

Care in Your City

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