Hypertensie I: Inleiding

Hypertension is a chronic condition characterized by persistent elevation of arterial blood pressure, defined as a systolic pressure of 130 mmHg or higher or a diastolic pressure exceeding 80 mmHg.

Hypertension can arise from primary or secondary causes.

Primary hypertension has no identifiable etiology but is influenced by factors like increased sodium intake, sedentary lifestyle, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption.

Conversely, secondary hypertension results from identifiable causes, such as left ventricular hypertrophy and coronary artery disease.

Hypertension in adults is classified as follows.

Elevated blood pressure is indicated by a systolic pressure between 120 and 129 mmHg and a diastolic pressure below 80 mmHg.

Stage 1 hypertension is marked by a systolic pressure between 130 and 139 mmHg or a diastolic pressure between 80 and 89 mmHg.

Lastly, stage 2 hypertension is marked when the systolic blood pressure is 140 mmHg or higher or the diastolic blood pressure exceeds 90 mmHg.