Hypertension (Case Study)

Question 1

What is primary HTN?

Answer 1

ELEVATED BLOOD PRESSURE

pressure of blood flow against vessels = mg

Question 2

Consequences of primary HTN

Answer 2

increased pressure = heart, kidney and eye disease
arterial wall thickening
less elastic blood vessels
narrowing lumen
due to arteriosclerosis, increased fluid retention

Question 3

Diet for HTN

Answer 3

DASH diet (Dietary approach to stop hypertension)

Question 4

Mechanisms of DASH diet

Answer 4

1. high potassium to sodium ratio = promotes Na and h2O excretion
2. high magnesium/ high calcium = smooth muscle relaxants - blood vessel elasticity maintained
3. low sodium = for SALT SENSITIVE individuals - reduct water retention. Also weight-loss due to decreased appetite.
4. Moderate total fat, low saturated fat and low cholesterol intake = improves blood lipid profile, reduce LDL buildup, thus arteriosclerosis.
5. High Fibre - appetite control & reduced cholesterol re-absorption (excretes bile meaning more bile created reducing blood cholesterol)
6. Avoid added sugar = blood glucose management
7. High Veg and fruit = plant sterols lower cholesterol levels