Hypertension

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

High blood pressure - Hypertension is the most significant risk factor in strokes, heart failure and in ischaemic heart disease

Question 2

Aetiology/ causes

Answer 2

Aetiology - Look at risk factors

Question 3

Risk factors

Answer 3

Obesity
Insulin resistance
High alcohol intake
High salt intake
Aging
Stress
Low potassium intake
Low calcium intake

Question 4

Epidemiology/ Population affected

Answer 4

20% of adults in the UK have blood pressures above 160/95

Question 5

Clinical presentation

Answer 5

Usually symptom-free on its own

Various complications that can arise

Question 6

Prognosis

Answer 6

Mortality from strokes and uraemia is decreased if hypertension is treated

Question 7

DDX

Answer 7

Secondary hypertension should be sought for as the differential especially if the patient is at extremes of aging.

Hyperaldosteronism
Coarctation of the aorta
Renal artery stenosis
Chronic kidney disease
Aortic valve disease