George P. Chrousos

Hypertension
[[File:|250px|]]
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
  George P. Chrousos is a distinguished researcher and professor in the field of medicine, particularly known for his work in endocrinology and stress research. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis) and its role in stress response, as well as the pathophysiology of Cushing's syndrome and other stress-related diseases.

Early Life and Education

George P. Chrousos was born in Greece. He pursued his medical education at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, where he graduated with honors. Following his graduation, Chrousos moved to the United States to further his training and research in endocrinology.

Career

Chrousos has held several prestigious positions throughout his career. He has been a professor at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, as well as at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States, where he has conducted much of his groundbreaking research. His work at the NIH has been instrumental in elucidating the mechanisms of the HPA axis and its impact on the body's stress response.

In addition to his research, Chrousos has been a mentor to many students and young scientists, guiding them in their careers in medicine and research. He has published extensively, with hundreds of articles in peer-reviewed journals, and his work is highly cited in the fields of endocrinology and stress research.

Contributions to Medicine

George P. Chrousos's research has had a profound impact on the understanding of stress and its effects on the human body. His studies on the HPA axis have helped clarify how stress influences various bodily functions, including immune response, metabolism, and psychological well-being. This work has led to better understanding and treatment of stress-related disorders, such as Cushing's syndrome, depression, and anxiety disorders.

Chrousos's work has also contributed to the development of diagnostic tests and treatments for diseases related to dysregulation of the HPA axis. His research has paved the way for new therapeutic approaches in managing stress and preventing its harmful effects on health.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, George P. Chrousos has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to medicine and science. These include prestigious awards from various scientific societies and organizations, acknowledging his impact on the field of endocrinology and his role in advancing medical knowledge and patient care.

Legacy

George P. Chrousos's work continues to influence the fields of endocrinology and stress research. His contributions have not only advanced scientific understanding but have also had a tangible impact on clinical practice, improving the lives of patients with stress-related disorders. As a researcher, educator, and mentor, Chrousos has left a lasting legacy in medicine.