HYPERTENSION Meaning and
Definition
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Hypertension is a medical condition characterized by persistently high blood pressure levels above the normal range. Blood pressure is the force exerted by the circulating blood against the walls of the blood vessels, and it is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Hypertension typically occurs when the systolic blood pressure (the pressure when the heart contracts) consistently exceeds 140 mmHg or when the diastolic blood pressure (the pressure when the heart is at rest) consistently exceeds 90 mmHg.
The condition can be classified into two categories: primary or essential hypertension, which accounts for the majority of cases and has no identifiable cause, and secondary hypertension, which is caused by an underlying health condition such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or certain medications. Hypertension is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it generally does not present noticeable symptoms, which makes it crucial to monitor blood pressure regularly.
If left untreated or uncontrolled, hypertension can lead to severe health complications. It significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, strokes, heart attacks, kidney damage, and other organ-related problems. Lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress levels, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption can help in preventing or managing hypertension. Additionally, medication may be prescribed by healthcare professionals to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. Regular medical check-ups are essential for detecting and managing hypertension.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Top Common Misspellings for HYPERTENSION *
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Other Common Misspellings for HYPERTENSION
Etymology of HYPERTENSION
The word "hypertension" is derived from two Greek roots: "hyper" meaning "above" or "over", and "tension" meaning "pressure". Hypertension refers to a medical condition characterized by high blood pressure, hence the combination of these two Greek roots to form the word.
Idioms with the word HYPERTENSION
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white coat hypertension
"White coat hypertension" refers to a medical condition in which a person's blood pressure appears to be elevated solely due to the stress and anxiety associated with being in a clinical or medical environment, such as a doctor's office or hospital. This temporary increase in blood pressure is not indicative of a long-term or chronic condition, as it subsides outside of the clinical setting.
Similar spelling words for HYPERTENSION
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