Wong Fun

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

Wong Fun (Huang Kuan; 1828–1884) was a pioneering figure in the field of Chinese medicine and is best known for his contributions to the modernization of traditional Chinese medical practices. Born in the Qing Dynasty, Wong Fun was among the first to integrate Western medical knowledge with Chinese herbal medicine, laying the groundwork for what would later become known as integrative medicine. Wong Fun's journey into medicine began in his hometown, where he was initially trained in the classical Chinese medical tradition. His keen interest in the advancements of Western medicine led him to study abroad, where he was exposed to new medical theories and practices. Upon his return to China, Wong Fun dedicated himself to the study and practice of both Western and Chinese medicine, believing that the integration of these two systems could provide more comprehensive care to his patients. Throughout his career, Wong Fun made significant contributions to the field of medicine. He was instrumental in introducing Western surgical techniques and pharmaceuticals to China, while also advocating for the importance of traditional Chinese medical practices such as acupuncture and herbal medicine. His work helped to bridge the gap between two vastly different medical systems, fostering a more holistic approach to healthcare in China. Wong Fun's legacy is not only evident in the field of medicine but also in the numerous texts he authored. His writings, which include detailed analyses of medical cases and discussions on the integration of Western and Chinese medicine, remain influential to this day. Through his publications, Wong Fun was able to disseminate his innovative ideas, promoting a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to medicine. In recognition of his contributions, Wong Fun is celebrated as a visionary in the field of integrative medicine. His efforts to combine the best of Western and Chinese medical practices have had a lasting impact, influencing the development of modern healthcare systems in China and beyond.