Ronald Smith, M.D. Pavel Levy, M.D. Carlos Ferrario, MD
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is often called the "silent killer" because it often has no symptoms. Markers for the development of hypertension are present from childhood. How we live our life, known as our "Life Styles", greatly affect the likelihood of developing high blood pressure as we age. Hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke, heart attack and kidney disease. The Southeastern region of the United States leads the nation in the prevalence of these cardiovascular diseases. At the Hypertension and Vascular Research Center we evaluate those factors that contribute to the hypertension and seek to control hypertension to limit target organ damage.
Vascular Disease (poor circulation which may involve both arteries and veins) is most commonly thought of as "hardening of the arteries" or atherosclerosis (deposition of fat in the arteries) which commonly leads to heart attacks, strokes, damage to the kidneys, leg pain and some times amputations. However, long before the classical atherosclerosis changes of our large vessels, there are changes to the smallest of our vessels through out the body which lead to hypertension. Understanding these changes in the small "resistance" vessels helps to prevent the progression of hypertension and the damage to our organs. Both types of vessel changes are evaluated at the Hypertension and Vascular Research Center. The atherosclerotic vascular disease, also a chronic process, can begin very early in life. Particularly those with poor diet, use of tobacco, and certain genetic traits may have disease detected as early as age 30-40. The changes in the structures of veins, although not usually considered to be involved with high blood pressure, can lead to blood clots which may travel to the lungs and other vital organs. In many cases preventable events, and resulting death, may be avoided by early detection and treatment. A number of vascular conditions, such as venous insufficiency and lymphedema, can contribute to chronic swelling in the extremities, mainly in the legs.
Our goals are:
- To educate the public about the significance of "Life Style" changes, adherence to medical treatment, and awareness of the consequences of uncontrolled hypertension
- To provide the highest possible quality of patient care to those persons diagnosed with hypertension and vascular disease;
To offer continuing education opportunities to physicians and other health care providers - To foster effective community outreach programs to promote wellness and public awareness about this prevalent health problem
- To conduct intensive basic and clinical research into the causes and consequences of hypertension
The following are the special fields of clinical expertise and interests in hypertension and vascular disease at our Center:
- Diagnosis and comprehensive medical therapy of a large variety of the causes of hypertension with particular reference to the importance of the kidney.
- Diagnosis and comprehensive medical therapy and interest in diseases of the arteries and veins.
- Measurement of hemodynamic characteristic of the heart and vascular system with our non-invasive devices.
- Premature (occurring in the young) atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
- Comprehensive approach to the management of cardiovascular risk factors which predispose to hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity.
- Identification of these risk factors through evaluation of history, physical examination and blood samples.
- Identification and management of clotting disorders (hyper-coagulation).
As a part of our Center we coordinate:
The Non-invasive evaluation of early structural and functional arterial changes in our state-of-the-art hypertension diagnostic laboratory
- Kidney function evaluation
- Appropriate ancillary consultation
- Appropriate special laboratory evaluations by our Core Lab biochemistry, lipid factors, and special coagulation labs
- 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring
The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center is a major referral center for cardiovascular disease.
To Schedule an Appointment:
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For further information:
Patient Scheduling Coordinator, 336-716-9423