Hypertension Overview and Stages

Study Notes

Hypertension is a condition where blood pressure is consistently high.
A normal blood pressure for adults (18 years and older) is below 120 mm Hg systolic and below 80 mm Hg diastolic.
Prehypertension is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure is between 120 and 139 mm Hg or diastolic is between 80 and 89 mm Hg.
Stage 1 hypertension is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure is between 140 and 159 mm Hg or diastolic is between 90 and 99 mm Hg.
Stage 2 hypertension is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure is 160 mm Hg or higher or diastolic is 100 mm Hg or higher.
Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and peripheral vascular disease.
Hypertension often has no symptoms in the early stages.
Treatment aims to reduce blood pressure and prevent or minimize organ damage.
Non-pharmacological approaches like lifestyle changes are often prescribed initially.
Pharmacological treatment may be required if blood pressure doesn't decrease after a reasonable time (1-3 months).

Normal blood pressure for adults (18 years and older) is below 120/80 mmHg.
Prehypertension ranges from 120-139 mmHg systolic or 80-89 mmHg diastolic.
Stage 1 hypertension is defined as 140-159 mmHg systolic or 90-99 mmHg diastolic.
Stage 2 hypertension is defined as 160 mmHg or higher systolic or 100 mmHg or higher diastolic.
Hypertension increases risk of heart, brain, kidney, and peripheral vascular disease.
Hypertension is typically asymptomatic in the early stages.
Treatment aims to reduce blood pressure and prevent or minimize organ damage.
Lifestyle modifications are often the first line of treatment, and if these are ineffective, pharmacological treatment may be considered after 1-3 months.