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Description of High blood pressure

Definition of  Hypertension  According to dictionary definition  High blood pressure is also known as hypertension. It occurs as a result of the blood flowing through your blood vessels, being consistently too high.  Causes and Risk Factors  for  Hypertension  According to dictionary definition  According to dictionary definition  There are two types of hypertension namely, essential hypertension (primary hypertension) and secondary hypertension.Essential hypertension is a condition in which the exact cause of hypertension is not known. It has a multifactorial etiology namely:1. Genetic factors: Hypertension runs in families and children of hypertensive parents tend to have increased blood pressure.2. Factors present at birth: Low birthweight is associated with subsequent high blood pressure.Secondary hypertension is caused due to a specific and potentially treatable cause like:1. Kidney disorders2. Endocrine causes: Conn €™s syndrome, adrenal hyperplasia, pheochromocytoma, Cushing €™s syndrome, and acromegaly.3. Congenital cardiovascular defects4. Drugs: Oral contraceptives, NSAIDs, steroids, antihypertensive drugs, and illegal drugs like cocaine and amphetamines.
Some common factors that increase your chances of developing high blood pressure are:1. Older age: Adults over the age of 35 are at a higher risk for having high blood pressure.2. Family history: If either your parents or grandparents had high blood pressure, there is an increased chance of developing high blood pressure.3. Overweight/obesity: If you are obese or overweight there is increased risk of suffering from hypertension.4. Diet: If your diet regularly consists of foods that are high in sugar or fat content and low in minerals and fibers then you are putting your body at increased risk of developing hypertension. Increased sodium intake (which comes from salt) increases the risk of hypertension.5. Lack of exercise: Reduced physical activity increases your weight which in turn increases your risk of hypertension.6. Drinking too much alcohol regularly: Drinking more than two alcoholic drinks per day, increases your chance of having high blood pressure.  Signs and Symptoms  of  HypertensionAccording to dictionary definition  Most people with hypertension are asymptomatic, even if their blood pressure is very high. Some people may present with headaches, nosebleeds, or palpitations. Hence, generally it is an accidental finding during a routine checkup.  InvestigationsAccording to dictionary definition  You must get your blood pressure checked after age of 35 especially if you have other risk factors. Owing to the fluctuating nature of high blood pressure, you must get it measured at different time of the day or after specific triggers like exercise, exertion, etc. It is very important to take two to three blood pressure readings during each visit for about three to four appointments so it can be made sure that patient is actually suffering from hypertension. Other investigations like complete blood count, kidney function tests, serum lipid profile, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) may be required to rule out secondary hypertension.  Treatment  of  Hypertension  According to dictionary definition  There are many drugs like beta-blockers, alpha-blockers, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, etc. that help in controlling high blood pressure. Depending on the cause of hypertension, the severity of the condition, and presence or absence of other concomitant diseases, your physician will select medicine that is best for treating your hypertension.  Complications and When Should You See a DoctorAccording to dictionary definition  After considering the risk factors mentioned above, if you suspect your pressure could be on higher side, you should visit a doctor to get it checked regularly for few days so a diagnosis can be made and accordingly, treatment is decided for you.  

The complications of untreated hypertension include:a) Chronic kidney failureb) Heart disease like heart attack, and a risk of strokec) Sudden death due to internal bleeding in the brain is also possible.