Hypertension

Definition

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by an elevated force of blood against the walls of the arteries. It often leads to serious health issues, including heart disease and stroke, as it puts extra strain on the cardiovascular system. This condition can be influenced by various factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and other underlying health issues, making its management essential for overall health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hypertension is often referred to as a 'silent killer' because it typically has no noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
2. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to the development of hypertension.
3. Normal blood pressure is generally considered to be around 120/80 mmHg; anything above this is classified as prehypertension or hypertension depending on the severity.
4. Hypertension increases the risk of serious health problems including heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss.
5. Management of hypertension may include lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both, tailored to each individual's needs.

Review Questions

• What are some common risk factors associated with developing hypertension, and how do they affect cardiovascular health?
  • Common risk factors for hypertension include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, high sodium intake, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. These factors can lead to increased arterial stiffness and vascular resistance, raising blood pressure levels. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension places significant strain on the heart and blood vessels, increasing the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke.
• Discuss how systolic and diastolic pressures are measured and their significance in diagnosing hypertension.
  • Systolic pressure is measured when the heart contracts and pumps blood into the arteries, while diastolic pressure is measured when the heart is at rest between beats. Both numbers are critical in diagnosing hypertension; a reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher is considered hypertensive. Monitoring these pressures helps healthcare providers assess cardiovascular health and determine appropriate interventions for managing high blood pressure.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of untreated hypertension on overall health and wellness within the context of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Untreated hypertension can have severe long-term implications for overall health, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart failure, coronary artery disease, and stroke. It can lead to structural changes in the heart and blood vessels over time, known as hypertensive heart disease. The persistent elevation in blood pressure causes wear and tear on arterial walls, contributing to conditions such as atherosclerosis and potentially resulting in life-threatening complications if left unmanaged.

Related terms

Systolic Pressure: The pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart muscle, typically the first number recorded in a blood pressure measurement.

Diastolic Pressure: The pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats, typically the second number recorded in a blood pressure measurement.

Atherosclerosis: A condition characterized by the hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to the buildup of plaque, which can be exacerbated by hypertension.