Hypertension By: Kenneth Hall and Matt McCallum Matt McCallum

What is it? Hypertension is frequently referred to as "high blood pressure” in which the blood pressure is chronically elevated. It is defined as consistent elevation of systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure at rest.

Blood pressure readings are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) Normal blood pressure Systolic <140 mm Hg Diastolic <90 mm Hg Pre Hypertensive Systolic mm Hg Diastolic mm Hg Stage 1 Hypertension Systolic mm Hg Diastolic mm Hg Stage 2 Hypertension Systolic >159 mm Hg Diastolic >99 mm Hg Malignant Systolic >200 mm Hg Diastolic >120 mm Hg

Types of Hypertension There are two classifications, essential (primary) and secondary Essential hypertension is when there is no specific medical cause to explain the patient's condition. Secondary hypertension is when the high blood pressure is due to another condition, such as kidney disease or an adrenal tumour.

Heart of hypertensive person

Symptoms Most of the time, there are no symptoms, but if there are, they include both early and advanced symptoms.

Early Symptoms Blurred Vision Lightheadedness Fainting Headaches Nose bleeds

Advanced Symptoms Shortness of breath Decreased exercise tolerance Chest pain Heart Attack Retinal bleeding

Testing The main test for hypertension is blood pressure measurement Other tests include: Chem 20 Echocardiogram Urinalysis X-ray of the kidneys

Treatment The main goal in treating hypertension is to reduce blood pressure, to prevent further complications. This is done by making lifestyle changes and by medications.

Lifestyle Changes Decreased sodium in the diet Decreased saturated fats, and no saturated fats Decreased daily calories Weight loss Increased exercise

Medications ACE Inhibitors: enalapril, ramipril Angiotensin 2 Receptor Blockers: losartan Calcium Channel Blockers: nifedipine Diuretics: hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide Beta Adrenergic Blockers: atenolol, metoprolol Vasodilators

Questions Why do you think hypertension is increasing and affecting more and more people as time goes on? What can we do to avoid/decrease hypertension as an individual and in society in general?

References Anatomy and Physiology.2 nd Edition. Elaine N. Marieb Genetics