hypertensie

Hypertensie, or hypertension, is a chronic medical condition defined by persistently elevated arterial blood pressure. It is commonly diagnosed when repeated measurements show a systolic pressure of 140 mmHg or higher or a diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg or higher. Some guidelines recognize lower thresholds or categorize results into stages to reflect cardiovascular risk. Diagnosis generally requires several elevated readings taken on separate occasions, and may be confirmed with home blood pressure monitoring or ambulatory monitoring.

Most cases are primary (essential) hypertension, with no single identifiable cause. A smaller share results from underlying conditions or medications (secondary hypertension), such as kidney disease, endocrine disorders, sleep apnea, or use of stimulants or certain prescription drugs.

Risk factors include increasing age, obesity, high-sodium diet, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol use, tobacco use, stress, and family history. Hypertension increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney disease, and retinal damage. Often there are no symptoms, which is why routine screening is important.

Management aims to reduce cardiovascular risk through lifestyle changes and pharmacotherapy when needed. Nonpharmacologic measures include weight reduction, regular aerobic exercise, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low in saturated fat (the DASH diet), sodium reduction, limiting alcohol, and smoking cessation. When pharmacologic treatment is indicated, common drug classes include thiazide diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers, and beta-blockers. The choice depends on the person’s blood pressure level, coexisting conditions, age, pregnancy status, and side-effect profile.

Ongoing monitoring of blood pressure and adherence is essential. With appropriate treatment, most people can achieve normal or near-normal blood pressure and substantially reduce the risk of complications.