Hypertension

A chronic cardiovascular disorder characterized by persistently elevated arterial blood pressure (adult systolic blood pressure ≥130 mm Hg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥80 mm Hg), increasing the risk of target-organ damage and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The most common cause accounting for 95% of all cases is primary essential hypertension (genetics, excessive sodium intake, obesity, lack of exercise, tobacco, alcohol, age). Other causes are secondary hypertension due to kidney failure, renovascular hypertension, thyroid disease, adrenal gland disorders, Cushing syndrome, obstructive sleep apnea, medications (NSAIDs), and drugs (cocaine, methamphetamine).