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Essential Hypertension
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Often asymptomatic, headache, dizziness, blurred vision
Complications	Stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney disease
Onset	Typically adulthood
Duration	Long-term
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetic factors, lifestyle factors
Risks	Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, high salt intake, alcohol consumption, smoking
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

Essential Hypertension, also known as primary hypertension, is a chronic medical condition characterized by persistently elevated blood pressure in the arteries. It is the most common form of hypertension, accounting for 90-95% of all cases.

Pathophysiology

Essential hypertension is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.

Genetic Factors

Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of essential hypertension. Studies have shown that individuals with a family history of hypertension are at a higher risk of developing the condition. Several genes have been implicated in blood pressure regulation, including those involved in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and sodium transport.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as diet, physical activity, and stress levels can influence blood pressure. High salt intake, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity are well-known risk factors for hypertension. A sedentary lifestyle and chronic stress can also contribute to elevated blood pressure.

Clinical Presentation

Essential hypertension is often asymptomatic, especially in its early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue

Complications

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

• Stroke
• Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
• Heart failure
• Chronic kidney disease
• Aneurysm

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of essential hypertension is primarily based on the measurement of blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer. Blood pressure is considered elevated if it is consistently above 140/90 mmHg. Additional tests may be conducted to rule out secondary causes of hypertension and to assess for target organ damage.

Management

The management of essential hypertension involves both lifestyle modifications and pharmacological treatment.

Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle changes are the first line of treatment and include:

• Dietary changes: Reducing salt intake, increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables, and following a DASH diet
• Physical activity: Engaging in regular aerobic exercise
• Weight loss: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight
• Smoking cessation
• Limiting alcohol consumption

Pharmacological Treatment

When lifestyle modifications are insufficient, medications may be prescribed. Common classes of antihypertensive drugs include:

• Diuretics
• ACE inhibitors
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Beta blockers

Prognosis

With appropriate management, individuals with essential hypertension can lead normal lives. However, ongoing monitoring and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.

See Also

• Hypertension
• Secondary hypertension
• Cardiovascular disease

External Links

• [American Heart Association]
• [World Health Organization]