Conditions Hypertension

Hypertension

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a long-term condition that causes blood pressure to become elevated (140/90 or higher in adults or 150/90 for those aged 80 or over). There are no specific symptoms for hypertension but , if left untreated, can put a strain on your heart, blood vessels and other organs. Hypertension can increase your risk of heart disease, heart attacks, heart failure and stroke.

Hypertension increases pressure on the heart and blood vessels, making them work harder but less efficiently. Blood vessels become less elastic, thicken and weaken, and plaque begins to build up along the artery walls. As more plaque builds up, the heart must work harder to circulate the blood which further exacerbates the condition.

Persistent high blood pressure can put extra strain on the blood vessels, heart, brain, kidneys and eyes and can increase the risk of serious medical conditions like heart disease, heart attacks, heart failure, kidney disease and strokes. Clinicians may recommend making lifestyle changes and may prescribe medicines to keep blood pressure at safe levels.