Hypertension

Definition:

Sustained high blood pressure is known as hypertension.

Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood on the walls of the vessels.

Normal BP is 120/80 mmhg

In Hypertension BP > 130/90

         i.          Grade 1 hypertension: Also called Mild hypertension

Systolic BP = 130-140 mmhg          Diastolic BP = 85-90 mmhg

       ii.           Grade 2 hypertension: Also called Moderate hypertension

Systolic BP = 140-160 mmhg          Diastolic BP = 90-95 mmhg

      iii.           Grade 3 hypertension: Also called Severe hypertension

Systolic BP = 160-180 mmhg          Diastolic BP = 95-100 mmhg

     iv.            Grade 4 hypertension: Also called Malignant hypertension

Systolic BP >180mmhg          Diastolic BP > 110mmhg

Etiology:

Primary /Essential/ Ideopathic Hypertension:

In about 95% cases no cause of hypertension can be identified and the form of hypertensionis called primary or essential hypertension.

Secondary hypertension:

In about 5% cases, cause of hypertension can be discovered and the form of hypertension is called secondary hypertension.

Causes of secondary hypertension:

Ø  Renal and renovascular diseases:

o   Chronic renal failure

o   Glumerulonephritis

Ø  Endocrine disease:

o   Pheochromocytoma

o   Cushing’s syndrome

o   Conn’s syndrome

Ø  Drugs:

Oral contraceptive containing estrogens, NSAIDs and sympathomimetic agents

Ø  Alcohol consumption (chronic)

Ø  Coarctation of aorta ( localized narrowing of aorta)

Ø  Pregnancy