Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, refers to a condition where the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. This condition can strain the heart, damage blood vessels, and lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease if left untreated.
Types of Hypertension:
- Primary Hypertension: This is the most common type of hypertension, where the exact cause is unknown. It tends to develop gradually over many years.
- Secondary Hypertension: This type of hypertension occurs due to an underlying condition or medication that raises blood pressure. Examples include kidney disease, adrenal gland tumors, thyroid problems, or certain medications like birth control pills.
- Resistant Hypertension: This refers to high blood pressure that remains high despite treatment with three different types of antihypertensive medications. It can be challenging to manage and may require a comprehensive approach including lifestyle changes and sometimes additional medications or procedures.
Managing hypertension involves lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking. Medications may also be prescribed to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. Regular monitoring and management are crucial to controlling hypertension and maintaining overall health.