Robert Keate

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

Robert Keate (1777–1857) was a prominent British surgeon known for his contributions to the medical field, particularly in the early 19th century. Born into a well-established family, Keate's medical career was marked by his dedication to improving surgical techniques and patient care during a time when the medical profession faced numerous challenges.

Early Life and Education

Robert Keate was born in 1777, in a period characterized by significant changes in the medical field. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in medicine, which led him to pursue a medical education. He received his training at some of the most prestigious institutions of the time, although the specific details of his education remain sparse. His early exposure to the medical profession paved the way for his future contributions.

Career

Keate's medical career was distinguished by his work as a surgeon. He served in various capacities, including as a surgeon at the Royal Infirmary, where he gained a reputation for his skillful surgical techniques and his compassionate approach to patient care. Keate was known for his efforts to improve surgical procedures, which contributed to reducing the mortality rate associated with surgery during his time. Throughout his career, Keate was involved in teaching and mentoring the next generation of surgeons. His commitment to education was evident in his participation in medical societies and his contributions to medical literature. He authored several influential texts that were widely used by medical professionals and students alike.

Contributions to Medicine

One of Keate's most notable contributions to medicine was his work on the treatment of bladder stones, a common and painful condition during his time. He developed innovative surgical techniques that improved the outcomes for patients undergoing surgery for bladder stones. His methods were considered groundbreaking and significantly advanced the field of urology. In addition to his surgical innovations, Keate was also recognized for his efforts to improve hospital conditions. He advocated for better hygiene practices and the implementation of measures to prevent the spread of infections in hospitals, which were critical issues in the pre-antiseptic era of surgery.

Legacy

Robert Keate's legacy in the medical field is marked by his contributions to surgical techniques and patient care. His work laid the foundation for future advancements in surgery and helped to improve the quality of medical treatment available to patients in the 19th century. Keate's dedication to his profession and his impact on medicine are remembered as significant milestones in the history of surgery.

See Also

• History of surgery
• Urology
• Medical education