Arterial Hypertension (Hypertension)

Arterial hypertension (AH)

A persistent increase in blood pressure (BP) above the physiological norm (140/90 mm Hg) in individuals not receiving antihypertensive therapy.

Isolated systolic hypertension refers to a persistent increase in systolic blood pressure with normal diastolic blood pressure.

In the absence of complications, hypertension is almost asymptomatic and is detected by random measurement of blood pressure with a sphygmomanometer.

Blood pressure is measured after meals, in a sitting position, on both arms. The diagnosis is made based on several measurements at different times.

There are primary (essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension.

Essential hypertension accounts for up to 95% of cases. The reasons are unclear, but hereditary predisposition and lifestyle factors are suspected.

Secondary hypertension (5%) is associated with diseases of the kidneys, endocrine system, and blood vessels.

During hypertension there are 3 stages. At the 1st stage, the increase in blood pressure is unstable, at the 2nd stage - stable, controlled by medications, at the 3rd stage - target organ damage.

Treatment of hypertension includes lifestyle changes and drug therapy (diuretics, β-blockers, ACE inhibitors, calcium antagonists, alpha blockers).

The goal is to achieve a target blood pressure level of <140/90 mm Hg. This reduces the risk of complications (heart attack, stroke) and mortality.