High Blood Pressure
Description
High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of blood pushing against artery walls remains consistently elevated. Often called a "silent killer," it frequently presents with no symptoms but can cause serious damage to the heart, kidneys, brain, and blood vessels over time. Functional medicine views hypertension as a multifactorial issue, influenced by inflammation, stress, poor diet, sleep apnea, insulin resistance, nutrient deficiencies, and toxin exposure. By identifying and treating root causes—rather than simply suppressing blood pressure with medication—we aim to restore cardiovascular balance and long-term wellness.
Symptoms
Headaches
Dizziness or blurred vision
Chest discomfort
Nosebleeds
Fatigue or confusion
Shortness of breath
Ringing in the ears
Anxiety or palpitations
Labs & Testing Options
Comprehensive metabolic panel
Kidney function (BUN, creatinine, eGFR)
Lipid panel
Fasting insulin and glucose
Hemoglobin A1c
Magnesium, potassium, and sodium levels
CRP or homocysteine (vascular inflammation)
Sleep study (if sleep apnea suspected)
Heavy metal or mold testing (case-dependent)
Treatment Options
DASH or Mediterranean-style diet
Potassium and magnesium-rich foods
Omega-3 fatty acids and CoQ10
Beetroot powder or nitric oxide boosters
Weight loss and regular exercise
Stress reduction (HRV training, breathwork, adaptogens)
Sleep optimization (addressing apnea or insomnia)
Salt reduction and toxin elimination
Garlic, hibiscus, or celery seed extract (natural hypotensives)
There’s more to hypertension than salt. Let’s uncover what’s really driving your numbers and create a natural plan.