[Arterial] hypertension (aka high blood pressure, HTN) is chronically elevated BP in arteries.

• BP is expressed by systolic (maximum) and diastolic (minimum) pressures in the arterial system
• The systolic pressure occurs when the L ventricle is most contracted, the diastolic pressure when the L ventricle is most relaxed prior to the next contraction
• Normal BP at rest is between 100/60-140/90 systolic/diastolic, so HTN is present is BP>140/90 for aduts, and different numbers apply to kids

• Primary (essential) hypertension (95%), with no obvious underlying cause. It tends to be familial, and is likely the consequence of an interaction between environmental and genetic factors. The prevalence of essential hypertension increases with age, and patients with relatively high blood pressure at younger ages are at increased risk for subsequent development of hypertension. It can increase the risk of cerebral, cardiac, and renal events
• Secondary hypertension (5%), where HTN is due to an identifiable secondary cause, including:
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Narrowing of the aorta or kidney arteries
  • Endocine disorder, e.g. excess aldosterone, cortisol, or catecholamines
  • Tumors
  • Side effect of many drugs

• Dietary and lifestyle changes can improve BP control, and decrease risk of complications
• Drugs, is often necessary in Pt's whom lifestyle changes are not enough or not effective

• Tx of moderately arterial BP (>160/100mmHg) w/ drugs is associated w/ improved life expectancy
• Benefits of drug Tx for BP 140/90-160/100 is more controversial

• Doesn't usually cause Sx initially
• Sustained HTN is a risk factor for:
  • Hypertensive heart disease
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Stroke
  • Aortic aneurysm
  • Peripheral artery disease
  • Chronic kidney disease

• Antihypertensive
• Pregnancy HTN