OverviewWhat is primary hypertension?Primary (essential) hypertension is high blood pressure that is multi-factorial and doesn’t have one distinct cause. It’s also known as idiopathic or essential hypertension. Above-normal blood pressure is typically anything over 120/80 mmHg. This means that the pressure inside your arteries is higher than it should be. Show
Why should I be concerned about essential hypertension?Essential hypertension (now known as primary hypertension) damages your blood vessels. The condition worsens over time and can cause life-changing complications that include:
Symptoms and CausesWhat causes essential primary hypertension?Unhealthy habits and certain circumstances put you at risk for essential primary hypertension. These include:
How is primary hypertension different from other forms of hypertension?Other types of hypertension have one distinct cause. These include a medical condition or side effects of medications. When there is a direct cause, it’s known as secondary hypertension. Primary and secondary hypertension can co-exist, particularly when there’s an acute worsening of blood pressure control, a new secondary cause should be considered. Conditions that can cause secondary hypertension include:
What are the symptoms of essential hypertension (now known as primary hypertension)?In the early stages, primary hypertension has no symptoms. Over time, blood vessel damage can start affecting your health. You may experience:
Diagnosis and TestsHow is primary hypertension diagnosed?A diagnosis of primary hypertension is made when you have high blood pressure, but none of the conditions that cause secondary hypertension. The best way to know if you have it is by seeing a healthcare provider who will:
What happens during a blood pressure check?Healthcare providers use a device with an inflatable arm cuff and dial. They inflate the cuff and watch the dial while listening to the force of blood through a stethoscope. The test results in two readings:
Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. If either number is higher, you may have hypertension. Your healthcare provider will take multiple readings at different time points before determining the next steps in your care. Will I need any other tests?If there are multiple high blood pressure readings, your healthcare provider may recommend 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. This test regularly measures blood pressure over 24 hours, even while you sleep. Healthcare providers take the average of these readings to confirm or rule out a diagnosis of hypertension. Management and TreatmentWhat does primary hypertension treatment look like?Primary hypertension treatment typically includes lifestyle changes and medications. Lifestyle changesMaintaining a healthy lifestyle includes:
MedicationsVarious medications can lower your blood pressure, including:
PreventionHow can I prevent essential (primary) hypertension from worsening?To prevent high blood pressure from worsening you can:
Outlook / PrognosisWhat is the outlook for people with primary hypertension?Many people lower their blood pressure with medications and lifestyle changes. Some people come off blood pressure medications after maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A small number of people experience no change in blood pressure despite trying several medications (resistant hypertension). Living WithWhat’s important to know about living with primary hypertension?Medications alone are not enough to lower your blood pressure. For the best results, you need to live a healthy lifestyle. It can be challenging to change what you eat and break old habits. Some people benefit from the help of health coaches, therapists or trusted friends. Setting realistic goals can help you make steady progress and feel your best. A note from Cleveland Clinic Essential hypertension is high blood pressure that is not due to another medical condition. There can be many causes, including obesity, family history and an unhealthy diet. Even though the condition does not cause symptoms, it’s critical to manage it. Essential hypertension can lead to blood vessel damage, putting you at risk for life-threatening complications. With successful treatment, you can lower your blood pressure and preserve your health for years to come. Does HTN mean hypertension?High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is blood pressure that is higher than normal. Your blood pressure changes throughout the day based on your activities. Having blood pressure measures consistently above normal may result in a diagnosis of high blood pressure (or hypertension).
What does HTN cause?The excessive pressure on the artery walls caused by high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and body organs. The higher the blood pressure and the longer it goes uncontrolled, the greater the damage. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to complications including: Heart attack or stroke.
What are 3 symptoms of hypertension?When symptoms do occur, they can include early morning headaches, nosebleeds, irregular heart rhythms, vision changes, and buzzing in the ears. Severe hypertension can cause fatigue, nausea, vomiting, confusion, anxiety, chest pain, and muscle tremors.
What does HTN mean on a prescription?Hypertension (HTN or HT), also known as high blood pressure (HBP), is a long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated.
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