Hypertension Flashcards
What is hypertension?
Elevation of BP to a level likely to cause harm
What are the risk factors of hypertension?
genetics, diet (Na+ intake high), stress/physical activity, obesity, alcohol and smoking
What are the causes of hypertension?
Renal causes, endocrine, physical obstruction, neurogenic
How are blood vessels affected by hypertension?
Blood vessels - atherosclerosis (large vessel/small vessel disease - Macro/Microangiopathy).
How is the heart affected by hypertension?
Heart - left ventricular hypertrophy, heart failure, MI.
How is the kidney affected by hypertension?
Kidney - granular appearance - scarring of filters. Leads to renal failure over time.
How are the eyes affected by hypertension?
Hypertensive retinopathy
How is the brain affected by hypertension?
Cerebral haemorrhage, cerebral infarction
What treatment is used for hypertension?
Smoking cessation, weight loss, exercise, reduce cholesterol. Antihypertensives
