Carl Wood

Hypertension
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Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Headache, dizziness, shortness of breath
Complications	Heart disease, stroke, kidney failure
Onset	Gradual
Duration	Long term
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetics, diet, lifestyle
Risks	Obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption
Diagnosis	Blood pressure measurement
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Lifestyle changes, medication
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.

Signs and Symptoms

Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms until it has caused significant damage to the heart and arteries. Some people with high blood pressure may experience headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

Causes

The exact cause of hypertension is often unknown, but several factors can contribute to its development, including:

• Genetics
• Unhealthy diet, particularly high salt intake
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking

Diagnosis

Hypertension is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is generally considered high.

Treatment

Treatment for hypertension typically involves lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes may include:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Reducing salt intake
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking

Medications used to treat hypertension include diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers.

Complications

If left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney failure
• Vision loss

Prevention

Preventing hypertension involves adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use.

See Also

• Cardiovascular disease
• Blood pressure
• Heart attack

External Links

• World Health Organization: Hypertension
• CDC: High Blood Pressure
  Carl Wood was a pioneering figure in the field of reproductive medicine, particularly known for his significant contributions to the development of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). His work has had a profound impact on fertility treatments, making it possible for countless individuals and couples to conceive children.

Early Life and Education

Carl Wood was born in Australia. He pursued his medical degree at the University of Melbourne, where he showed early interest in obstetrics and gynaecology. After completing his medical degree, Wood furthered his studies and training in the United Kingdom, where he specialized in reproductive medicine.

Career

Upon returning to Australia, Carl Wood joined the faculty at Monash University. It was here that he embarked on his groundbreaking research into IVF. In the early 1970s, Wood and his team began experimenting with techniques to fertilize human eggs outside the body. This work was pioneering and laid the foundation for the development of IVF as a viable fertility treatment.

In 1980, Wood's team achieved a significant milestone when the first IVF baby in Australia was born. This success marked Australia as one of the early adopters of IVF technology and established Carl Wood as a leading figure in the field.

Throughout his career, Wood continued to innovate and improve IVF techniques. His research interests also expanded to include other aspects of reproductive medicine, such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome.

Legacy

Carl Wood's contributions to reproductive medicine have left a lasting legacy. His work has not only helped to bring joy to many families through the birth of children but has also advanced the scientific understanding of human reproduction. Wood's pioneering efforts have paved the way for further innovations in fertility treatments, making him a revered figure in the medical community.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Carl Wood received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to medicine and reproductive health. These accolades reflect the global impact of his work and his role as a trailblazer in the field of IVF.

See Also

• In vitro fertilisation
• Reproductive medicine
• Monash University