Hypertension: Definition, Classification, and Management

Definition and Classification

• Hypertension is a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated blood pressure in the arteries.
• Classified as:
  • Primary (essential) hypertension: no identifiable cause (90-95% of cases)
  • Secondary hypertension: caused by underlying medical conditions (e.g., kidney disease, sleep apnea)

Blood Pressure Measurement

• Blood pressure measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg)
• Classified into:
  • Normal: <120/80 mmHg
  • Elevated: 120-129/80 mmHg
  • Stage 1 hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
  • Stage 2 hypertension: ≥140/90 mmHg

Risk Factors

• Age: increases with age
• Family history: genetic predisposition
• Obesity: increased risk with higher body mass index (BMI)
• Physical inactivity: sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking: increases risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease
• Diet: high sodium, low potassium, and low fruit and vegetable intake
• Stress: chronic stress can contribute to hypertension

Complications

• Cardiovascular disease: heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke
• Kidney disease: chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease
• Eye damage: hypertensive retinopathy and vision loss
• Cognitive decline: increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Diagnosis: based on multiple blood pressure measurements and medical history
• Lifestyle modifications:
  • Dietary changes: DASH diet, low sodium, and high potassium intake
  • Weight loss: if overweight or obese
  • Exercise: regular physical activity
  • Stress management: relaxation techniques and stress reduction
• Medications:
  • Diuretics: thiazide diuretics and loop diuretics
  • Beta blockers: reduce heart rate and blood pressure
  • ACE inhibitors: angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
  • Calcium channel blockers: vasodilators
  • Alpha blockers: reduce peripheral vascular resistance

Management and Control

• Regular blood pressure monitoring: at home and in clinical settings
• Adherence to medication and lifestyle modifications
• Regular follow-up with healthcare provider: to adjust treatment and monitor progress

Test your knowledge on hypertension, a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated blood pressure in the arteries. Learn about its definition, classification, risk factors, complications, diagnosis, treatment, and management. This quiz covers the basics of hypertension and its impact on overall health.