Hypertension Treatment in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Mateo County | Dr. Leena Joshi, MD
Last reviewed by Dr. Leena Joshi, MD on June 2026
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when the force of blood against artery walls remains consistently elevated. Dr. Leena Joshi treats hypertension through comprehensive kidney health evaluation, medication management, lifestyle counseling, and regular monitoring to protect kidney function. As a board-certified nephrologist serving San Mateo County, Dr. Joshi addresses the critical connection between blood pressure control and kidney disease prevention at her Burlingame, Daly City, and San Mateo County offices.
What is hypertension?
Hypertension means your blood pressure stays too high over time. Blood pressure measures how hard your heart pushes blood through your body. When this pressure is too strong for too long, it can damage your blood vessels and organs, especially your kidneys. Your kidneys filter waste from your blood, and high blood pressure can harm the tiny filters inside them. Many people with hypertension feel fine and do not know they have it. That is why doctors call it a silent disease. A hypertension kidney doctor in San Mateo can check your blood pressure and kidney function together. Dr. Joshi explains that controlling blood pressure may help protect your kidneys from permanent damage. Regular check-ups can catch problems early when treatment works best.
Signs and symptoms
- Persistent headaches, especially in the morning
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Blurred or double vision
- Nosebleeds that occur frequently
- Shortness of breath during normal activities
- Chest discomfort or pressure
- Fatigue or confusion
How Dr. Joshi manages hypertension
Dr. Joshi begins with a thorough evaluation that includes blood pressure measurements, kidney function tests, and urine analysis to assess how hypertension may be affecting the kidneys. Dr. Joshi works closely with patients in San Mateo and surrounding communities to develop individualized treatment plans. Management may include prescription medications such as ACE inhibitors or ARBs that can protect kidney function while lowering blood pressure. Dr. Joshi provides detailed guidance on dietary changes, including sodium reduction and heart-healthy eating patterns. Weight management, regular physical activity, and stress reduction techniques may also be recommended. For patients with kidney disease, Dr. Joshi monitors kidney function regularly to adjust treatment as needed. Dr. Joshi emphasizes patient education so individuals understand how their daily choices affect both blood pressure and kidney health. Follow-up appointments allow Dr. Joshi to track progress and modify the treatment plan to achieve optimal blood pressure control while preserving kidney function.
When to see a nephrologist for hypertension
- Blood pressure remains elevated despite taking multiple medications
- Kidney function tests show declining results
- Protein or blood appears in urine samples
- Family history of kidney disease or early kidney failure
- Diabetes combined with high blood pressure
- Your primary care doctor recommends specialist evaluation
Frequently asked questions
Can high blood pressure cause kidney disease?
Yes, hypertension can damage the small blood vessels in your kidneys over time. This damage may reduce kidney function and can lead to chronic kidney disease if blood pressure remains uncontrolled.
What blood pressure level is safe for my kidneys?
Your physician will determine your target blood pressure based on your individual health. Dr. Joshi works with patients to achieve levels that protect kidney function while considering other health conditions.
How often should I see a hypertension kidney doctor in San Mateo?
Visit frequency depends on your blood pressure control and kidney function. Dr. Joshi may recommend appointments every few weeks initially, then every three to six months once your condition stabilizes.
Will I need medication forever?
Many patients require long-term medication to control hypertension and protect their kidneys. Some individuals may reduce medications with significant lifestyle changes, but your physician will determine what is appropriate for your situation.
Can kidney disease cause high blood pressure?
Yes, the relationship works both ways. Damaged kidneys may release hormones that raise blood pressure, creating a cycle. Dr. Joshi addresses both conditions together to break this cycle.
What lifestyle changes help the most?
Reducing sodium intake, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and managing stress can all help. Dr. Joshi provides specific recommendations tailored to each patient’s needs and capabilities.
Dr. Leena Joshi, MD welcomes patients at two convenient locations: 1750 El Camino Real Suite 301, Burlingame, CA and 1800 Sullivan Ave Suite 507, Daly City, CA. To schedule a consultation for hypertension and kidney health evaluation, please call (650) 355-5551.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your physician about your specific situation.
Medically reviewed by Leena Joshi, MD.