Hypertension

 Hypertension:

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common cardiovascular condition characterized by elevated blood pressure levels persistently exceeding 140/90 mmHg.

Type of Hypertension:

• Primary (essential) hypertension: This accounts for the majority of cases and often develops gradually over time due to complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
• Secondary hypertension: This results from an underlying medical condition or medication side effects, such as renal artery stenosis, adrenal disorders, or certain medications.

Effects:

• Hypertension increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, and chronic kidney disease.
• It can also lead to target organ damage affecting the heart, brain, kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels throughout the body.

Precautions:

• Regular blood pressure monitoring at home or in clinical settings using appropriate techniques and validated devices.
• Lifestyle modifications including dietary sodium restriction, weight management, regular physical activity, moderation of alcohol intake, and smoking cessation.
• Medication management based on individual risk factors, comorbidities, and blood pressure goals, with adherence to prescribed regimens and regular follow-up visits.

Benefits:

• Blood pressure control reduces the risk of cardiovascular events, stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease, leading to improved outcomes and prolonged life expectancy.
• Lifestyle modifications can complement pharmacological therapy, enhance antihypertensive effects, and promote overall cardiovascular health.
• Early detection and management of hypertension can prevent target organ damage, preserve renal function, and improve quality of life.