Define Secondary Hypertension

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a serious medical condition. Secondary hypertension is not common. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, only about 5 percent of hypertension patients have been diagnosed with secondary hypertension.

Hypertension

• Hypertension is the most common cardiovascular disease and affects millions of people, even children and teenagers. It is harmful because it causes the heart to work harder, contributes to a weakening of the arteries and can aide in the development of heart failure.

Secondary Hypertension

• When the cause of hypertension can be pinpointed, the condition is known as secondary hypertension. It can be triggered by abnormalities in the adrenal glands that cause hormone levels to increase, which increases blood pressure.

Causes

• Conditions affecting the kidneys, arteries, heart or endocrine systems are the main causes of secondary hypertension. It can also occur during pregnancy.

Risk Factors

• Some risk factors for secondary hypertension are a family history of high blood pressure, smoking, excess body fat, inactivity, liberal alcohol consumption, and high-fat or high-sodium diets. African Americans are more likely than other ethnicities to develop hypertension.

Treatment

• Certain lifestyle changes are necessary in the treatment of hypertension: lose weight if you are overweight, consume more fruits and vegetables and cut down on processed foods, quit smoking, begin an exercise regimen, and limit alcohol to one or two drinks a day. Discuss medicinal treatments with your doctor.