hypertension - WatsonHealth

HYPERTENSION

Hypertension is a common condition in which the pressure of the blood against your artery  wall  is too high that might cause medical issues, like heart disease.

You can have hypertension for a considerable length of time while not experiencing any symptoms. Indeed, even without symptoms, high blood pressure can harm blood vessels and your heart. Uncontrolled hypertension increases your danger of having serious medical issues, including heart attacks and stroke.

Hypertension develop faster over many years, and it affects almost everybody. Luckily, nowadays, hypertension can be recognized easily. What’s more, when you realize you have hypertension, you can work with your doctor to control it.

There are two kinds of hypertension, namely:

Primary (essential) hypertensionFor most adults, there’s no identifiable reason for hypertension. This type of hypertension, called essential or basic hypertension, will generally develop gradually over years.

Secondary hypertensionA few people have hypertension that is caused by a hidden condition. This kind of hypertension, called secondary hypertension, will general show up all of a sudden and can cause a higher heart rate than essential hypertension.

Different conditions and medicines can trigger hypertension, including:

  • Obstructive rest apnea
  • Kidney problems
  • Adrenal organ tumors
  • Thyroid problems
  • Inborn defects
  • Certain medication like contraceptive pills, decongestants, over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Illegal drugs, for example, cocaine and amphetamines

Symptoms may differ upon the seriousness of the condition. You may encounter the following:

  • Chest pain (angina)
  • Tightness or heavy weight in the chest
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Pain in the neck, back, arms, or shoulders
  • Persistent cough
  • Loss of appetite
  • Leg or lower leg swelling

You require prompt care if you have chest pain or palpitations.

DIAGNOSIS

Your doctor will examine your medical history, perform a physical exam, and run lab tests to check your kidneys, sodium, potassium, and blood count.

At least one of these tests might be used to help doctor know the reason for your manifestations:

  • Electrocardiogram records your heart’s electrical movement
  • Echocardiogram takes a detailed image of your heart using ultrasound
  • Coronary angiography examines the flow of blood through your heart arteries

 

TREATMENT

Treatment for hypertensive cardiovascular disease  relies on the severity of your illness, your age, and your medical history.

Drugs help your heart in various ways. The primary objectives are to keep your blood from coagulating, enhance the circulation of your blood, and lower your cholesterol.

The following treatments may help you:

  • Water pills or diuretics to lower blood pressure
  • Nitrates to treat chest pain
  • Statins to treat high cholesterol
  • Calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors to lower blood pressure
  • Aspirin to avoid blood clotting
  • Keeping up a healthy weight, getting sufficient sleep, and frequently practicing a healthy way of life

 

 

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