Hypertension medical terminology
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Hypertension Medical Terminology: Definitions and Classifications
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure or arterial hypertension, is a chronic condition where the pressure in the arteries is consistently elevated. Blood pressure is measured using two values: systolic (pressure during heart contraction) and diastolic (pressure during heart relaxation). Normal blood pressure at rest is typically between 100-140 mmHg systolic and 60-90 mmHg diastolic. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure readings are consistently at or above 140/90 mmHg 239.
Hypertension is classified into two main types:
- Primary (Essential) Hypertension: This is the most common form and has no identifiable cause, but is linked to genetic and environmental factors 27.
- Secondary Hypertension: This type results from underlying medical conditions or medications .
Key Medical Terms in Hypertension
Resistant Hypertension (RHTN)
Resistant hypertension is defined as blood pressure that remains above target levels despite the use of three or more antihypertensive medications of different classes, including a long-acting calcium channel blocker, an ACE inhibitor or ARB, and a diuretic, all at maximal or maximally tolerated doses. It also includes cases where blood pressure is controlled but requires four or more medications. Diagnosing RHTN requires ruling out factors like improper measurement, white coat hypertension (high readings only in a clinical setting), undertreatment, and medication nonadherence. The term "apparent treatment RHTN" is used when true resistance cannot be confirmed due to incomplete information .
Malignant Hypertension
Malignant hypertension refers to a severe form of high blood pressure associated with damage to target organs, especially the eyes (retinopathy with hemorrhages and exudates, with or without papilledema). It is characterized by fibrinoid necrosis affecting multiple organs and is sometimes referred to as hypertension with multi-organ damage .
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
This term describes elevated pressure within the skull (intracranial pressure) without a known cause. Recent understanding suggests that "chronic intracranial venous hypertension syndrome" may be a more accurate term, as elevated venous pressures are often involved .
Pathophysiology and Risk Factors
Hypertension develops due to a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Key mechanisms include endothelial dysfunction, vascular remodeling, activation of the sympathetic nervous system, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) . Major risk factors include age, obesity, poor diet, excessive alcohol intake, and lack of physical activity 35.
Diagnosis and Staging
Diagnosis is made by measuring blood pressure with a sphygmomanometer. Stages of hypertension include:
- Prehypertension
- Stage 1 Hypertension
- Stage 2 Hypertension
Complications and Target Organ Damage
If untreated, hypertension can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and damage to other organs. Malignant hypertension, in particular, is associated with widespread organ damage, including the brain, heart, and kidneys 2369.
Treatment and Management Terminology
Treatment involves both lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, weight management, reduced alcohol intake) and pharmacological interventions. Common antihypertensive drug classes include:
- ACE inhibitors (ACE-i)
- Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Diuretics
- Calcium channel blockers
- Beta-blockers 359
Conclusion
Hypertension is a complex, chronic condition with specific medical terminology used to describe its types, severity, and complications. Understanding these terms is essential for accurate diagnosis, effective management, and reducing the risk of serious health outcomes 12345679.
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