Hypertension Flashcards
(29 cards)
What is Hypertension (HTN)?
A condition characterized by persistently elevated blood pressure levels
Hypertension is often defined by specific blood pressure thresholds.
What are the risks associated with HTN?
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD)
Hypertension can lead to heart failure, stroke, and kidney disease.
What are the determinants of cardiac output?
Heart rate and stroke volume
Cardiac output is the product of heart rate and stroke volume.
What does Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) indicate?
The average blood pressure in a person’s arteries during one cardiac cycle
MAP is calculated as DBP + 1/3(SBP - DBP).
What are the causes of Primary Hypertension?
Idiopathic
Genetic factors, lifestyle factors, and environmental influences
Primary hypertension has no identifiable secondary cause.
What is the difference between White Coat HTN and Masked HTN?
White Coat HTN occurs in clinical settings; Masked HTN occurs outside clinical settings
Both conditions can lead to misdiagnosis of hypertension.
What can cause Drug Induced Hypertension?
Certain medications such as NSAIDs, pseudoephedrine/phenylepherine, and oral contraceptives
Drug-induced hypertension can occur with various pharmacological agents.
What are the physiological effects of antihypertensive medications?
Lowering blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular risk
Different classes of antihypertensives work through various mechanisms.
List the BP classification categories.
- Normal <120
- Elevated 120-129
- Hypertension Stage 1 130-139
- Hypertension Stage 2 >140
- Hypertensive Crisis
Blood pressure classification helps in guiding treatment decisions.
What is the goal of BP management in patients with other comorbidities?
To achieve individualized blood pressure targets based on patient conditions
Comorbidities may include diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and heart disease.
What is the 2017 ACC/AHA HTN Treatment Algorithm?
A guideline for the management of hypertension based on blood pressure levels and patient characteristics
The algorithm helps to standardize treatment approaches.
What are non-pharmacological interventions for HTN?
- Dietary changes
- Regular physical activity
- Weight management
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Smoking cessation
Lifestyle modifications can significantly impact blood pressure control.
What are the general principles of drug therapy for hypertension?
Start low, go slow; consider patient-specific factors; monitor for efficacy and side effects
Individualized treatment plans are essential for optimal management.
Where do Thiazides act in the body?
Distal convoluted tubule of the nephron
Thiazide diuretics help reduce blood volume and lower blood pressure.
What is the site of action for Loop Diuretics?
Thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle
Loop diuretics are effective for rapid diuresis.
What does the Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System (RAAS) regulate?
Blood pressure and fluid balance
RAAS is a critical hormonal system involved in cardiovascular health.
What is Albuminuria?
Presence of albumin in urine, indicating kidney damage
Albuminuria is often a marker for cardiovascular risk.
What are Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors used for?
To lower blood pressure by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II
ACE inhibitors are a common first-line treatment for hypertension.
What is the function of Angiotensin II Receptor Inhibitors?
Block the action of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure
They are an alternative to ACE inhibitors.
What is the effect of Calcium Channel Blockers?
They relax blood vessels and decrease heart rate
Calcium channel blockers are effective in treating hypertension and angina.
What are the first-line options for uncomplicated HTN?
- Thiazide diuretics
- ACE inhibitors
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
These medications are commonly prescribed for initial treatment.
What is the role of Beta-Blockers in hypertension management?
Reduce heart rate and myocardial contractility
Beta-blockers are often used in patients with comorbid conditions.
What are Alpha-adrenoceptor Antagonists (alpha-blockers) used for?
To relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure
Alpha-blockers are sometimes used in combination therapy.
What are Centrally Acting Sympatholytics?
Medications that decrease sympathetic outflow from the central nervous system
Clonidine is a common example of a centrally acting sympatholytic.
