What is Hypertension?
What is the definition of hypertension?
Blood pressure that is consistently 130/80 mmHg or higher.
True or False: Hypertension is the most common chronic disease among U.S. adults and in the world.
True.
Name one modifiable risk factor for hypertension.
Diet, exercise, smoking, obesity, stress
True or false: Hypertension always causes symptoms.
What kind of exercise is recommended to help lower blood pressure?
Exercises can include walking, swimming, biking, hiking
What are the two main types of hypertension?
Primary and secondary hypertension.
Why is hypertension called the “silent killer”?
Because it often has no symptoms but can lead to serious complications.
Name one non-modifiable risk factor for hypertension.
Age, family history, race.
What are some possible symptoms of severe or uncontrolled hypertension?
Headache, dizziness, blurred vision, chest pain, shortness of breath, stroke.
People diagnosed with hypertension should focus on which type of diet?
What organ plays a key role in regulating blood pressure by controlling fluid balance?
The kidneys.
What is one financial impact of hypertension on the healthcare system?
It contributes to billions in annual healthcare costs due to related conditions.
What screening method is used to detect hypertension?
Regular blood pressure checks.
What serious complication can result from long-term uncontrolled hypertension?
Stroke, heart attack, renal damage, heart failure, retinal changes, cardiac hypertrophy
Name one class of medication used to treat hypertension.
ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics.
What tool is used to measure blood pressure?
A sphygmomanometer.
What is one goal of Healthy People 2030 related to hypertension?
Reduce the number of people with high blood pressure.
At what age does the risk of hypertension increase significantly?
Around age 45 for men and age 65 for women.
What is hypertensive crisis?
A severe increase in blood pressure (180/120 or higher) that requires immediate attention.
What resource provides education and support for individuals with hypertension?
The American Heart Association.
What is the name of the hormone system that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance?
The renin angiotensin aldosterone system RAAS
Which population group is statistically at higher risk of developing hypertension at a younger age?
African American adults.
What does ambulatory blood pressure monitoring involve?
Wearing a device that takes blood pressure throughout a 24-hour period.
Which part of the eye can be affected by hypertension?
The retina, leading to hypertensive retinopathy.
What does patient adherence mean, and why is it essential in hypertension management?
Being consistent with prescribed treatments and lifestyle changes.