hipertensiv

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated blood pressure within the arteries. This condition is defined as a sustained systolic blood pressure of 130 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure of 80 mmHg or higher. Hypertension is a significant risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.

The causes of hypertension can be broadly categorized into primary (essential) and secondary hypertension. Primary hypertension, which accounts for about 90-95% of cases, has no identifiable underlying medical cause and is often attributed to a combination of genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors such as diet, physical inactivity, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking. Secondary hypertension, on the other hand, is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease, thyroid problems, or certain medications.

Symptoms of hypertension are often absent in the early stages, leading to it being termed the "silent killer." When symptoms do occur, they can include headaches, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, and dizziness, though these are not specific to hypertension. Diagnosis typically involves regular blood pressure monitoring. Management of hypertension involves lifestyle modifications and, when necessary, antihypertensive medications. Lifestyle changes include adopting a healthy diet low in sodium, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol intake. Medications work through various mechanisms, such as relaxing blood vessels or reducing the body's fluid volume. Effective management is crucial to prevent long-term complications.