Samuel Alexander Kinnier Wilson

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 Samuel Alexander Kinnier Wilson (1878–1937) was a prominent neurologist and neuropathologist who made significant contributions to the field of medicine, particularly in the study of various neurological disorders. He is best known for his work on Wilson's disease, a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to metabolize copper.

Early Life and Education

Samuel Alexander Kinnier Wilson was born in 1878 in Edinburgh, Scotland. He pursued his medical education at the University of Edinburgh, where he developed a keen interest in neurology and pathology. After completing his medical degree, Wilson furthered his studies and research in various parts of Europe, including work in Paris and London, which significantly shaped his future contributions to neurology.

Career and Contributions

Wilson's career was marked by his extensive research and clinical work in neurology. He worked at several hospitals in London, where he dedicated his efforts to understanding and treating neurological disorders. One of his most significant contributions was the detailed description of a condition he termed "progressive lenticular degeneration," now commonly known as Wilson's disease. His work on this condition was published in his seminal paper in 1912, which laid the foundation for understanding the genetic and pathological aspects of the disease.

In addition to Wilson's disease, he made notable contributions to the understanding of epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and other movement disorders. His approach to neurology was comprehensive, combining clinical observations with neuropathological findings, which was innovative at the time.

Wilson was also a prolific writer, contributing numerous articles and books on various aspects of neurology. His texts were widely regarded for their clarity and depth of knowledge, serving as valuable resources for both students and practicing neurologists.

Legacy

Samuel Alexander Kinnier Wilson's legacy in the field of neurology is enduring. Wilson's disease remains a key area of research and clinical interest, with his early descriptions still forming the basis of our understanding of the disorder. The term "Wilson's disease" itself stands as a testament to his contributions to medicine.

Beyond his specific work on Wilson's disease, Wilson's approach to neurology—integrating clinical practice with pathological research—has influenced generations of neurologists and remains a foundational principle in the field.

Death

Samuel Alexander Kinnier Wilson passed away in 1937, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to neurology and medicine. His work continues to inspire and inform ongoing research and clinical practice in the field of neurological disorders.