Wild cat

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

The wild cat refers to undomesticated felines that inhabit a wide range of environments across the world. These animals are members of the Felidae family, which is divided into two main subfamilies: the Pantherinae, which includes larger cats like the lion, tiger, leopard, and jaguar; and the Felinae, which comprises smaller species such as the lynx, ocelot, cheetah, and the wildcat (Felis silvestris). Wild cats are known for their sharp senses and predatory skills, which make them successful hunters.

Characteristics

Wild cats vary greatly in size, color, and behavior, but they share common characteristics that distinguish them from other mammals. These include retractable claws (except for the cheetah, which has semi-retractable claws), sharp canine teeth for killing prey, and a keen sense of hearing and sight. They are solitary animals for the most part, with the exception of lions, which live in social groups known as prides.

Habitat and Distribution

Wild cats are found on every continent except Antarctica. They inhabit a variety of environments, from dense forests and jungles to arid deserts and mountainous regions. Each species has adapted to its specific environment. For example, the snow leopard is perfectly adapted to the cold, mountainous regions of Central Asia, while the sand cat lives in the deserts of North Africa and the Middle East.

Conservation Status

Many wild cat species are threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and conflict with humans. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed several species as endangered or vulnerable. Conservation efforts are underway globally to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats. Initiatives include anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and the establishment of protected areas.

Domestication

The domestic cat (Felis catus) is believed to have descended from the Near Eastern wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica) around 9,000 years ago. This domestication process likely began when humans transitioned from nomadic to settled agricultural lifestyles, attracting rodents, which in turn attracted wild cats. Over time, a mutual relationship developed between humans and wild cats, leading to the domesticated cats we know today.

See Also

• Big cat
• Feline conservation
• Felidae
• List of felids