Hypertension

Question 1

What is hypertension?

Answer 1

Stage 1 hypertension - indicates systolic BP >130 mm Hg or diastolic BP >80 mm Hg

Stage 2 hypertension - refers to systolic BP >140 mm Hg or diastolic BP >90 mm Hg

Question 2

What is the etiology of hypertension?

Answer 2

Hypertension is of unknown etiology in the majority (90%) of patients (termed essential hypertension)

Secondary hypertension may arise from:
- renal conditions
- coarctation (narrowing) of the aorta
- endocrine abnormalities

Question 3

What are the complications of hypertension?

Answer 3

• stroke
• myocardial infarction
• heart failure
• aortic aneurysm and dissection
• renal damage
• retinopathy

Question 4

How is hypertension treated?

Answer 4

• lifestyle and dietary improvements
• pharmacological therapy:
• diuretics
• ACE inhibitors
• angiotensin receptor blockers
• calcium channel blockers