Description: Hypertension is a medical condition characterized by the persistent elevation of blood pressure in the arteries. This excessive force can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, strokes, and kidney problems. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed with two numbers: the first, or systolic pressure, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats; the second, or diastolic pressure, measures the pressure in the arteries between beats. A normal blood pressure reading is generally considered to be below 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is classified as primary (or essential), which has no identifiable cause, and secondary, which results from other medical conditions. Hypertension is often asymptomatic, meaning many people may be unaware they have it, making it a ‘silent killer.’ Diagnosis is made through regular blood pressure measurements, and management includes lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Preventing and controlling hypertension is crucial for maintaining good cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of serious complications.
History: Hypertension has been recognized since ancient times, although its understanding has significantly evolved. In the 19th century, Scottish physician Thomas Young was one of the first to measure blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer. However, it was in 1905 that Russian physician Nikolai Korotkoff developed a more accurate method for measuring blood pressure, based on auscultating Korotkoff sounds. Throughout the 20th century, hypertension became an important topic of medical research, and in 1977, the American Heart Association established the first guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension.
Uses: Hypertension is used as a key indicator in the assessment of cardiovascular health. Its diagnosis and management are fundamental in preventive medicine, as it allows for the identification of patients at risk of developing heart disease and strokes. Additionally, hypertension is used in epidemiological studies to investigate the relationship between blood pressure and various health conditions, as well as in clinical trials to evaluate the effectiveness of new antihypertensive treatments.
Examples: A practical example of hypertension is a patient who, after several measurements, consistently shows blood pressure readings above 140/90 mmHg. This patient may be advised to make lifestyle changes, such as improving their diet and increasing physical activity, and may require antihypertensive medication to manage their condition. Another example is the use of home blood pressure monitors, which allow patients to track their blood pressure and share the results with their doctor.
