Hypertension

Definition

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by an abnormally elevated blood pressure in the arteries. It is a significant risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hypertension is classified as a systolic blood pressure (the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts) of 130 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure (the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes) of 80 mmHg or higher.
2. Chronic stress can contribute to the development of hypertension by activating the sympathetic nervous system and the RAAS, leading to increased blood pressure.
3. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking can all increase the risk of developing hypertension.
4. Hypertension is a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
5. Effective management of hypertension often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, and medication therapy to lower blood pressure to a healthy range.

Review Questions

• Explain how chronic stress can contribute to the development of hypertension.
  • Chronic stress can lead to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which are key regulators of blood pressure. The increased activity of these systems can result in vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), increased fluid retention, and elevated heart rate, all of which can contribute to the development of hypertension. Prolonged exposure to stress hormones, such as cortisol, can also impair the body's ability to regulate blood pressure, further exacerbating the problem.
• Describe the relationship between hypertension and cardiovascular disease risk.
  • Hypertension is a major risk factor for the development of various cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage the delicate lining of the arteries (endothelium), leading to the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis). This narrowing and stiffening of the arteries increases the workload on the heart, which can eventually lead to heart failure. Hypertension also increases the risk of blood clots forming, which can block the flow of blood and cause a heart attack or stroke. Effectively managing hypertension through lifestyle changes and medication can significantly reduce the risk of these life-threatening cardiovascular complications.
• Analyze the role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in the regulation of blood pressure and its potential contribution to the development of hypertension.
  • The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is a complex hormonal system that plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure. When the RAAS is dysregulated, it can contribute to the development of hypertension. Renin, an enzyme produced by the kidneys, initiates a cascade that leads to the production of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. Angiotensin II not only causes blood vessels to narrow but also stimulates the release of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention, further increasing blood pressure. This cycle of vasoconstriction, fluid retention, and elevated blood pressure can become self-perpetuating, leading to the establishment of chronic hypertension. Understanding the RAAS and its role in blood pressure regulation is essential for developing effective treatment strategies for hypertension.

Related terms

Blood Pressure: The force exerted by the blood against the walls of the blood vessels, particularly the arteries, as the heart pumps blood through the circulatory system.

Arterial Stiffness: The decreased elasticity and increased rigidity of the arteries, which can contribute to the development of hypertension.

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): A hormonal system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance in the body, and its dysregulation can lead to hypertension.