Also Known as: HT, HTN, High blood pressure
Hypertension is a long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. High blood pressure typically does not cause symptoms. Long-term high blood pressure, however, is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, peripheral arterial disease, vision loss, chronic kidney disease, and dementia.
Sign and Symptoms:
If your blood pressure is extremely high, there may be certain symptoms to look out for,including:
- Severe headache
- Fatigue or confusion
- Vision problems
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Blood in the urine
- Pounding in your chest, neck, or ears
Causes of Hypertension:
Although it may not be possible to identify the cause of hypertension, several factors are known to increase the risk and worsen high blood pressure. These include:
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle – not getting enough exercise
- Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
- Excessive dietary sodium
- Use of oral contraceptives or hormone therapy
- Use of drugs such as steroids, cocaine, and amphetamines
- Aging
- Family history
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