What is hypertension
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Understanding Hypertension: A Comprehensive Overview
Definition and Measurement of Hypertension
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated pressure in the arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart. This condition forces the heart to work harder than normal to circulate blood through the blood vessels . Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and involves two readings: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart pumps) and diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats). A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mmHg, and hypertension is typically diagnosed when readings are consistently at or above 130/80 mmHg.
Prevalence and Impact
Hypertension is a significant public health issue, affecting nearly 40% of the world's adult population and is projected to impact approximately 25% of adults globally by 2025. In the United States alone, about 29% of adults have hypertension, with prevalence increasing to nearly 65% in those aged 60 years or older. The condition is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, stroke, kidney failure, and other serious health complications .
Types and Causes of Hypertension
Hypertension can be classified into several types based on its causes and characteristics:
- Primary (Essential) Hypertension: This is the most common type, accounting for about 95% of cases, and has no identifiable secondary cause.
- Secondary Hypertension: This type results from an underlying condition such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or certain medications.
- Pulmonary Hypertension: This involves elevated blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs and can be caused by various diseases, including heart and lung conditions.
The development of hypertension is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors, including aging, smoking, lack of exercise, obesity, high salt intake, stress, and anxiety.
Health Risks and Complications
Untreated hypertension can lead to numerous health issues, including:
- Cardiovascular Diseases: Hypertension is a leading risk factor for heart disease, including left ventricular hypertrophy, congestive heart failure, and ischemic heart disease .
- Stroke: Elevated blood pressure increases the risk of stroke by damaging blood vessels in the brain .
- Kidney Disease: Chronic high blood pressure can damage the kidneys, leading to renal failure.
- Other Complications: Hypertension can also cause vascular disease and other organ damage.
Diagnosis and Management
Accurate diagnosis of hypertension involves standardized blood pressure measurements and assessment of risk factors and potential secondary causes. Management strategies include lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, increased physical activity, and weight loss, as well as pharmacological treatments. Common antihypertensive medications include angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, calcium-channel blockers, and thiazide diuretics .
Conclusion
Hypertension is a prevalent and serious health condition that requires careful management to prevent severe complications. Understanding its types, causes, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment can help mitigate its impact on global health. Regular monitoring and adherence to prescribed treatments, along with lifestyle changes, are crucial in managing hypertension effectively.
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