Hypertensive heart disease

Hypertensive heart disease refers to a group of disorders that includes heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and left ventricular hypertrophy (excessive thickening of the heart muscle) resulting from high blood pressure. It is the leading cause of illness and death from high blood pressure and is one of the most common causes of heart failure.

Causes

Hypertensive heart disease is caused by the chronic elevation of blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Hypertension makes the heart work harder to pump blood, which causes the heart muscle to thicken (hypertrophy). Over time, this can lead to various forms of heart disease, including heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and arrhythmias.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hypertensive heart disease depend on the specific condition. For example, symptoms of heart failure can include shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs. Symptoms of ischemic heart disease can include chest pain and shortness of breath. Symptoms of left ventricular hypertrophy can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of hypertensive heart disease involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These tests can include electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and blood tests. The ECG and echocardiogram can show evidence of left ventricular hypertrophy and other changes associated with hypertensive heart disease.

Treatment

The treatment of hypertensive heart disease involves controlling the blood pressure and treating the specific heart conditions that result from the high blood pressure. This can involve a combination of lifestyle changes (such as diet and exercise), medications, and in some cases, surgery.

Prevention

Prevention of hypertensive heart disease involves controlling the blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medications. This can include a healthy diet, regular exercise, not smoking, and limiting alcohol intake.

See also

• Hypertension
• Heart failure
• Ischemic heart disease
• Left ventricular hypertrophy

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