Essential Hypertension

Question 1

What is the definition of Hypertension?

Answer 1

Blood Pressure above 140mmHg systolic and 90mmHg diastolic

Question 2

What is the cause?

Answer 2

In 95% of primary hypertension the cause is unknown

Question 3

What else can cause it?

Answer 3

Stiffening of the large arteries due to atherosclerosis

Question 4

Is it dangerous?

Answer 4

Yes because it is a major risk factor for Stroke and MI and causes 50% of vascular deaths

Question 5

Is it common?

Answer 5

Yes, it affects more than 50% of over 60 year olds

Question 6

Risk Factors (9)

Answer 6

Obesity, high dietary salt, lack of exercise, alcohol, stress, age, family history, male, ethnicity

Question 7

Symptoms (1)

Answer 7

*Usually asymptomatic

Question 8

Signs (2)

Answer 8

Retinopathy, proteinuria

Question 9

Investigations (7)

Answer 9

24 hour ambulatory BP, ECG, ECHO, Urinalysis, Bloods (U&E, eGFR), Glucose and Cholesterol

Question 10

First Line Treatment

Answer 10

Below 55 years old give an ACE inhibitor e.g Ramipril, above 55 years old give a Calcium Antagonist e.g Verapamil

Question 11

Other Treatments (6)

Answer 11

Beta blockers (bisoprolol), Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (losartan), Diuretics (furosemide, Bendroflumethiazide, Spironolactone), Aspirin, Statin