Causes
Heart damage caused by hypertension occurs when high blood pressure (hypertension) causes the heart to work harder to pump blood, resulting in various complications.
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Blood pressure that is chronic
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Coronary artery disease is a narrowing of the arteries supplying blood to the heart.
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Hypertrophy of the left ventricle (thickening of the heart muscle)
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Problems with heart valves
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Heart failure due to congestive heart failure
Symptoms
A person with hypertensive heart disease may experience a variety of symptoms depending on the severity of the condition. Some of these symptoms are:
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Angina (chest pain)
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Physical activity or lying down can cause shortness of breath
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Weakness or fatigue
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Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
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Retention of fluid in the legs, ankles, or abdomen
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Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
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Rapid weight gain
Diagnosis
Hypertension is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Diagnostic steps may include:
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Measurement of blood pressure to assess hypertension
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To evaluate the rhythm and electrical activity of the heart, an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is performed
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Echocardiograms (ultrasounds of the heart) are used to assess heart structure and function, including chamber size, muscle thickness, and valve function.
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Exercise stress tests to evaluate heart function
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A cardiac catheterization is used to assess blood flow and pressure in the heart and coronary arteries
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Testing for certain substances in the blood that may indicate heart damage or dysfunction
Treatment
A hypertensive heart disease treatment plan aims to control blood pressure, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications.
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Change your lifestyle by following a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking
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Medications that lower blood pressure, such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin II receptor blockers
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Angina or heart failure medications, such as nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors
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Surgical procedures used to repair or replace damaged heart valves, improve blood flow to the heart, or treat heart failure and arrhythmias.
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Programs to improve cardiovascular health and manage risk factors
Prevention
Hypertensive heart disease is prevented by managing high blood pressure and reducing risk factors. Prevention strategies may include:
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Regularly monitoring your blood pressure and seeking medical attention if you have hypertension
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Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet low in sodium and saturated fats, exercising regularly, and managing stress are all part of a heart-healthy lifestyle
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Maintaining regular follow-up appointments and taking prescribed medications
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Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco use
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Preventing hypertension and heart disease by managing underlying conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or kidney disease
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Controlling blood pressure and maintaining heart health is important for oneself and others
Conclusion
Left untreated, hypertensive heart disease can lead to various complications. Individuals can reduce their risk of developing hypertensive heart disease and improve their overall heart health by managing blood pressure, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking timely medical care. Individuals with hypertensive heart disease should be monitored regularly, receive early intervention, and adhere to treatment recommendations to prevent complications.
