What is Hypertension?
Also called “High Blood Pressure” hypertension occurs when the pressure inside the blood vessels is too high. Blood pressure is measured as two numbers, systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. Optimal healthy blood pressure is a systolic pressure of less than 120 and a diastolic pressure of less than 80. A blood pressure of 140/90 is considered high blood pressure.
| Category | Systolic Blood Pressure | Diastolic Blood Pressure |
| Normal | <120 | <80 |
| Pre-Hypertension | 120-129 | <80 |
| Hypertension – Stage 1 | 130-139 | 80-89 |
| Hypertension – Stage 2 | >140 | >90 |
| Hypertensive Crisis (call your doctor immediately) | >180 | >120 |
How Can a Nephrologist help with my Hypertension?
Peninsula Kidney Associates specializes in the prevention and treatment of kidney disease. High Blood Pressure is one of the leading causes of kidney failure. Your kidneys play a key role in keeping your blood pressure under control. Therefore, the effective management of hypertension is vital in the management of kidney disease.
Do I need to schedule an Appointment with Peninsula Kidney Associates?
Check with your primary care physician to see if your hypertension has affected your kidneys; if so, to what extent? Your primary care physician will refer you to see a PKA physician if they deem it necessary based on your individual case.