What is hypertension and what causes it?

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. It is one of the most important risk factors for heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other serious health problems.

The causes of hypertension are not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute, including:

- Genetics: Some people are more likely to develop hypertension if they have a family history of the condition.

- Age: The risk of hypertension increases with age.

- Race: African Americans are more likely to develop hypertension than people of other races.

- Gender: Men are more likely to develop hypertension than women, although the risk for women increases after menopause.

- Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of hypertension.

- Physical inactivity: People who are physically inactive are more likely to develop hypertension.

- Smoking: Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of hypertension.

- Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of hypertension.

- High sodium intake: Consuming too much sodium (salt) can increase the risk of hypertension.

- Kidney disease: People with kidney disease are more likely to develop hypertension.

- Certain medications: Some medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids, can cause hypertension as a side effect.

It is important to note that hypertension often does not have any symptoms, so it is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly, especially if you have any of the risk factors listed above.