Hypertension Clinic
High Blood Pressure Specialists and Treatment in Minnesota
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can be frustrating, especially knowing it can lead to stroke, kidney failure, heart disease and vision problems. We want to assure you that high blood pressure can be managed, and that’s why the CentraCare Heart & Vascular Center created our Hypertension Clinic. Treating high blood pressure is a science; however, we believe listening with empathy goes a long way in helping to achieve goals.
What is high blood pressure?
- Normal blood pressure is when systolic blood pressure (SBP) is less than 120 and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) is less than 80.
- Blood pressure is considered elevated when the SPB is between 120-129 and DPB is less than 80.
- Stage 1 hypertension is when blood pressure is 130-139/80-90.
- Stage 2 is when blood pressure is equal to or greater than140/90.
What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
Hypertension has no symptoms. Most people learn about high blood pressure at routine health visits. Others have vague symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision or chest pain.
What does a hypertension clinic do?
At our clinic, we manage high blood pressure through education, medication and lifestyle change. We look at your health holistically, meaning we will evaluate for secondary causes of hypertension such as renal artery stenosis, coarctation of the aorta, obstructive sleep apnea and pheochromocytoma. At times we may recommend emerging treatments like renal denervation, which is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces nerve activity within the kidneys, a known contributor to high blood pressure.
Who is a candidate for our program?
- People with difficult to control hypertension
- People with resistant hypertension, meaning blood pressure remains above the goal despite medications
- People who have high blood pressure along with other health conditions
Why choose our clinic?
- We are the only dedicated hypertension clinic serving Central Minnesota.
- Our team of experienced hypertension specialists includes a cardiologist, advanced practice provider, nurses, dietitians and pharmacists.
- Hypertension is often treated with medication. Our experts will work with you on the medication that best serves your needs, while providing education and managing side effects.
- We have experience in treating high blood pressure in diverse populations, especially those more prone to end stage renal disease, stroke and heart attack.
- You will have access to the latest technologies for treating hypertension. Our dedicated focus on hypertension allows us to stay on top of the latest research or participate in clinical studies such as the recent one for renal denervation (SPYRAL AFFIRM).
- Our holistic approach means that we listen and create individualized treatment plans that consider your demographics, lifestyle and preferences.
- Virtual visits are available for follow-up appointments.
- We work closely with your primary care clinician and other specialists as needed.
Our Team
Jacob Dutcher, MD
Wade Schmidt, MD
Yaga Saine, APRN, CNP
Alissa Rennie, RN
Kayla Wacker, RN
Payment
Most health insurance plans cover our program when referred by a primary care clinician or cardiologist. Self-referrals are welcome, and we can connect you with a referral specialist if needed.
Appointments
An initial Hypertension Clinic consult takes an hour. At this first visit, we will take your blood pressure and health history. Based on our exam and assessment, we may order labs or additional tests. Follow-up appointments take about 30 minutes. For your convenience, we try to schedule appointments on the same day as your other onsite visits.
To schedule an appointment at the Hypertension Clinic, please call 320-656-7020.
