Hypertension

Question 1

What is hypertension?

Answer 1

Raised blood pressure FROM THE NORM

Question 2

What is systolic and diastolic bp?

Answer 2

Systolic: Pressure when heart is CONTRACTED

Diastolic: Pressure when heart is RELAXED

Question 3

What are the valves for hypertension?

Answer 3

Systolic >140mm Hg

Diastolic >90mm Hg

Question 4

What are risk factors for hypertension?

Answer 4

• Age
• History
• Pregnancy
• Alcohol smoking drugs
• Obesity

Question 5

What are the causes of hypertension?

Answer 5

A combination of environmental factors (stress, obesity, alcohol, age) and Genetic makeup

Question 6

What can hypertension result in?

Answer 6

• Accelerated atherosclerosis (MI, stroke, Peripheral vascular disease)
• Renal disease

Question 7

What are common triggers for hypertension?

Answer 7

• NONE usually found

- Likely down to genetics and failing to control blood vessel wall constriction

Question 8

What are RARE triggers for hypertension?

Answer 8

• Renal artery stenosis (narrowing)

- Endocrine tumours

Question 9

Signs & symptoms of hypertension?

Answer 9

• Usually NONE
• May get headache
• May get transient ischaemic attacks (mini strokes with quick recovery in 24hrs)

Question 10

When should you further investigate hypertension?

Answer 10

• Young patients (uncommon at this age)
• Hypertension persisting despite adequate treatment
• Accelerated hypertension
• Unusual history

Question 11

What are some means of treating hypertension?

Answer 11

• Aim for BP < 120/90mm Hg for normal population
• Modify risk factors (weight loss, exercise)
• Medication, can use multiple combined if needed