High blood pressure

Definition

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition where the force of the blood against artery walls is consistently too high. It can lead to severe health complications and increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and sometimes death.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dietary factors such as high sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure.
2. Hypertension often has no symptoms but can still cause damage to cardiovascular organs over time.
3. Lifestyle changes like regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are essential for managing high blood pressure.
4. Long-term high blood pressure can lead to chronic conditions such as heart failure and kidney disease.
5. Nurses should monitor patients' dietary habits and educate them on reducing salt and saturated fat intake.

Review Questions

• What dietary factor is most commonly linked to high blood pressure?
• Why is it important for nurses to educate patients about lifestyle changes in managing hypertension?
• What long-term health complications can arise from untreated high blood pressure?

Related terms

Hypertension:

A medical term for high blood pressure where the force of the blood against artery walls remains elevated.

Sodium Intake:

The amount of salt consumed through diet, which can significantly impact blood pressure levels.

Cardiovascular Disease:

A class of diseases that involve the heart or blood vessels, often associated with hypertension.