HYPERTENSIVE ENCEPHALOPATHY Meaning and
Definition
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Hypertensive encephalopathy is a medical condition characterized by a sudden increase in blood pressure that leads to diffuse dysfunction and damage in the brain. It is considered a medical emergency and is most commonly seen in individuals with uncontrolled high blood pressure or in those who have experienced a sudden spike in their blood pressure levels.
The condition is caused by the elevated pressure within the blood vessels supplying the brain, leading to impaired blood flow and oxygenation to the brain cells. The increased pressure can cause the blood vessels in the brain to rupture or leak, leading to swelling and edema in the surrounding tissues.
Symptoms of hypertensive encephalopathy may range from mild to severe and can include headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, seizures, visual disturbances, and even loss of consciousness. If left untreated, it can progress rapidly and result in brain damage, stroke, or even death.
Treatment for hypertensive encephalopathy focuses on rapidly lowering the blood pressure to prevent further damage to the brain. This is typically achieved through the use of intravenous medications that lower blood pressure, along with supportive care to manage any associated symptoms or complications.
Overall, hypertensive encephalopathy is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt recognition and immediate medical intervention to prevent long-term neurological consequences. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, adherence to prescribed medications, and appropriate lifestyle modification are key preventive measures for individuals at risk of developing this condition.
Common Misspellings for HYPERTENSIVE ENCEPHALOPATHY
- gypertensive encephalopathy
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Etymology of HYPERTENSIVE ENCEPHALOPATHY
The word "hypertensive encephalopathy" is derived from three main terms: "hypertensive", "encephalo-", and "-pathy".
1. "Hypertensive" comes from the Greek words "hyper" meaning "excessive" and "tension" meaning "pressure". It refers to a medical condition characterized by high blood pressure.
2. "Encephalo-" originates from the Greek word "enkephalos" meaning "brain".
3. "-Pathy" is a suffix derived from the Greek word "pathos" meaning "suffering" or "disease". It is used to describe a pathology or disorder of a specific organ or system.
So, "hypertensive encephalopathy" is a medical term that signifies a condition caused by high blood pressure leading to dysfunction or damage of the brain.
