Pathophysiology Chapter 7: Hypertension

Questions and Answers

What is hypertension?

A consistent elevation of arterial pressure above the normal range expected for a particular age group.

What percentage of hypertension cases are classified as primary hypertension?

Approximately 90%.

What are the common risk factors associated with essential hypertension?

Familial history, increasing age, race, high dietary salt intake, hyperinsulinemia, heavy alcohol consumption, obesity, cigarette smoking, low dietary intake of potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

What is considered normal blood pressure according to current guidelines?

< 120 mm Hg systolic and < 80 mm Hg diastolic. Signup and view all the answers

Hypertension is defined as an arterial pressure greater than _____ in adults.

140/90 mm Hg Signup and view all the answers

Hypertension causes specific symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.

False Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to detect hypertension early?

To prevent organ and tissue damage. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common cause of hypertension?

Increased peripheral vascular resistance. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hypertension: Overview

Hypertension is a consistent elevation of arterial pressure above normal for a specific age group.
Approximately 25% of adults in the U.S. may have hypertension.
About 90% of hypertension cases are classified as primary (essential or idiopathic) hypertension, with unknown causes.
Secondary hypertension affects about 5-10% of patients, with identifiable causes.

Hypertension: Risk Factors

Family history of hypertension increases likelihood.
Risk is heightened by increasing age; higher incidence noted in black men.
High dietary salt intake contributes to increased blood pressure.
Hyperinsulinemia, heavy alcohol consumption, and obesity are associated with hypertension.
Cigarette smoking and low dietary potassium, calcium, and magnesium intake also elevate risk.

Hypertension: Pathogenesis

Normal blood pressure is defined as systolic < 120 mm Hg and diastolic < 80 mm Hg.
Hypertension is diagnosed at a blood pressure greater than 140/90 mm Hg over three visits.
Individuals with blood pressure between normal and 140/90 mm Hg are classified as pre-hypertensive.
Lifestyle modifications are recommended for those categorized as pre-hypertensive to achieve optimal blood pressure levels.

Hypertension: Clinical Approach

The focus on treating elevated diastolic blood pressure has shifted to include the importance of managing systolic pressure, especially in elderly patients.
Increased peripheral vascular resistance is the most common cause of hypertension.
Other contributing factors include prolonged increased cardiac output, mineralocorticoid excess, renal failure, and increased blood viscosity.

Hypertension: Clinical Presentation

Hypertension is often asymptomatic; common symptoms like headaches and fatigue aren't unique to hypertensive patients.
The condition is frequently identified during routine medical exams or when complications arise.
Serious complications of hypertension include myocardial infarction (MI), congestive heart failure (CHF), strokes (both thrombotic and hemorrhagic), hypertensive encephalopathy, and renal failure, classifying it as "the silent killer."

Hypertension: Rationale for Detection and Management

Early detection is crucial to prevent organ and tissue damage.
Comprehensive and frequent blood pressure screenings are essential for identification and management.
Treatment for essential hypertension is multifaceted, depending on severity and patient responsiveness.
Lifestyle and dietary modifications should be integral parts of managing hypertension.

Description

This quiz covers Chapter 7 of Pathophysiology for Pharmacy Students, focusing on cardiovascular disorders with an emphasis on vascular diseases, particularly hypertension. Test your knowledge on the definition and implications of hypertension as discussed in lectures by Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Abu-Samak.