Hypertension Overview

Hypertension is a public health epidemic and is one of the most common reasons for prescription drug therapy. In the U.S. it is a major risk factor for death and disability. It is, however, the most important modifiable risk factor for premature heart disease. Risk factors for hypertension include age, obesity, high salt diet, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and ...

Understanding the Numbers

The heart is a muscle that beats 60-100 times every minute. Each times the heart contracts blood travels from the heart into arteries which delivers oxygenated blood to the body. According to the ACC/AHA for office-based readings: Normal blood pressure: Systolic <120 mmHg and diastolic <80 mmHg Elevated blood pressure: Systolic 120 to 129 mmHg and diastolic <80 mmHg Hypertension:

Causes & Risk Factors

Primary or Essential Hypertension: This accounts for 90% of patients in which no underlying cause can be found. The potential mechanisms include abnormal sodium handling by the kidney, increased activity of the RAAS system, and sympathetic nervous system. White Coat Hypertension: Refers to elevated BP in the doctor's office with normal BP measurements at home. Masked Hypertension: Just the opposite ...