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High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Treatment

Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, and most feel perfectly fine. Left untreated, it quietly raises the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. Dr. Marina Gafanovich diagnoses and treats hypertension on the Upper East Side, with testing done in the office and a plan built around your life.

  • Board-certified internist
  • Affiliated with NewYork-Presbyterian / Weill Cornell
  • On the Upper East Side since 2008
  • Blood work & ECG in the office
Dr. Marina Gafanovich at her desk in the Upper East Side office, 1550 York Avenue

How we diagnose high blood pressure

One high reading is not a diagnosis. Blood pressure changes during the day and often rises at the doctor’s office. We confirm the diagnosis with repeated measurements and, when useful, home blood pressure readings.

At your visit we also check for causes and consequences of high blood pressure:

  • Blood tests: kidney function, electrolytes, blood sugar, cholesterol, thyroid
  • Urinalysis
  • ECG in the office to look at the heart

Treatment

Lifestyle first. Less salt, regular activity, weight loss if needed, limiting alcohol and better sleep can lower blood pressure significantly. We give you specific, realistic steps.

Medication when needed. If your blood pressure stays high, the doctor prescribes medication and adjusts it until you reach your target, with as few side effects as possible.

Follow-up. Visits every few weeks while treatment is adjusted, then every 3–6 months once your blood pressure is under control.

When to call 911

Blood pressure of 180/120 or higher with chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, confusion, weakness or vision changes is an emergency.

Why patients choose Dr. Gafanovich

Board-certified internist

Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), with more than 20 years in practice.

Hospital affiliation

Affiliated with NewYork-Presbyterian / Weill Cornell Medical Center.

A practice with history

Dr. Gafanovich has led this Upper East Side practice since 2008; the practice was founded in 1961.

Tests on site

ECG, spirometry, urinalysis and blood draw in the same office, often during the same visit.

Time to listen

Unhurried visits, and every result is explained.

Languages

English, Russian, Spanish

Insurance and payment

We accept many plans from Aetna, Cigna, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield (Anthem), MultiPlan and Coresource. Self-pay patients are welcome. Call 212-249-6218 for self-pay pricing.

See our Insurance page for the full list of plans, or call 212-249-6218 and we’ll check your coverage.

Frequently asked questions

Readings of 130/80 or higher on repeated measurements are generally considered high blood pressure. Your personal target depends on your age and other conditions.

Yes, if you can. Home readings help confirm the diagnosis and show how treatment is working. Bring your monitor to a visit so we can check its accuracy.

Not always. Some people can lower or stop medication after lasting lifestyle changes, but only under a doctor’s supervision.

Related services

Medically reviewed by Dr. Marina Gafanovich, MD, board-certified internist · Last reviewed: September 21, 2026

Book a visit

  • Book online in about a minute
  • Most major insurance plans accepted
  • English, Russian & Spanish spoken

My NYC Doctor — Dr. Marina Gafanovich, MD
1550 York Ave, Suite A
New York, NY 10028

Mon–Fri: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat–Sun: closed

Book your appointment online

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1550 York Ave, Suite A, Upper East Side · Mon–Fri 9 am – 5 pm