Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a severe condition in which the resistance to blood flow in the arteries has increased. This condition forces the heart to work harder than it should. An over-exerted heart can lead to life-threatening conditions such as strokes and heart attacks. A person who suffers from hypertension may also develop illnesses such as an aneurism. An aneurism is a sack that develops on the brain’s blood vessel. That sack can rupture, and the person can have a stroke or die from the repercussions.
Primary Hypertension
Hypertension can be attributed to one or a number of factors. Primary hypertension is a type that has no identified cause. The condition persists as a person grows older. Doctors can develop treatment plans that revolve around the idea of alleviating stress and changing lifestyle. They can also recommend prescriptions such as Nebivolol or Vasotec to treat the condition.
Secondary Hypertension
Secondary hypertension is a condition that has another illness at its cause. Secondary hypertension can come from diseases such as kidney disease or diabetes. A gland disorder, such as hyperthyroidism, can cause hypertension as well. Hyperthyroidism is a disorder in the thyroid gland. The gland produces too much hormone as a result of certain medications or a condition such as Graves' disease.
Pregnancy and Sleep Apnea
The existence of a pregnancy can cause hypertension because of the hormonal changes that occur. The condition is highly common in new mothers. A sleep disorder such as sleep apnea can also cause hypertension because the body’s entire rhythm is thrown off because of a lack of sleep. Sleep apnea deprives the brain of oxygen for approximately 20 seconds per episode. The loss of oxygen to the brain can cause other organs to perform improperly.
Genetics
Many medical conditions such as hypertension come about because of a natural genetic predisposition. People with genetics to develop hypertension will most likely develop secondary hypertension because of another illness. Additionally, a new child can be born into the world with an existing case of hypertension from a malfunctioning heart.
Medications
Medication can have an ill effect on the cardiovascular system. Diet pills and appetite suppressants can cause hypertension because of the stimulants they contain. Cold, allergy, and cough medicines can cause hypertension if they contain pseudoephedrine. Additionally, medications that are specifically for migraine headaches can cause a person to suffer from hypertension because they tighten the arteries.
Treatment
A normal blood pressure is one that is 120/80 mm Hg. A rise in the first number in this sequence is a cause for concern. The goal of a doctor is to help a person with high blood pressure to manage it and bring it down to a safe level. Doctors can use a number of strategies, such as asking the person to cut down on stress in his or her life. Several medications can assist. The most important part of healing is establishing the cause of hypertension.
