Hypertension is classified into Primary and Secondary; systolic or diastolic, and true systemic.
1. Systolic hypertension: This is common among the elderly especially where there are other disease conditions. The systolic blood pressure is persistently raised above 160mmHg.
2. Diastolic hypertension:In this case the diastolic blood pressure is elevated and sustained, and is severe in most cases. The difference between this and primary hypertension is that there is a noticeable change in the walls and inside of the arteries in diastolic hypertension whereas primary hypertension does not show any such change.
3. True systemic hypertension: In this particular condition both the systolic and diastolic blood pressures are equally elevated and sustained. Note that for one to be said to be hypertensive, his/her blood pressure must be taken repeatedly for at least one to two weeks.
4. Primary hypertension: This accounts for about 85% of known cases. There are no known underlying causes for this to develop. There is a persistent elevation of the diastolic blood pressure above 95mmHg. In most cases it is common within the family hence the general consensus that it is hereditary. Other factors that have been implicated in the development of primary hypertension include obesity, emotional stress, personality variables, etc.
5. Secondary hypertension: This is caused by a disease condition in the system. The pathological changes in the body lead to the surfacing of this condition. Some of the conditions that can lead to secondary hypertension include: Renal (kidney) disease, thyrotoxicosis, Toxaemia of pregnancy, Phaeochromocytoma (tumour of the adrenal gland), Arteriosclerosis, Coarctation of the aorta, Cushing syndrome, Renal artery stenosis and Oral contraceptives.
Joseph Ezie Efoghor is a professional nurse with years of practical experience. He writes on variety of topics which you may find beneficial to you. For more on his write-ups visit http://bloodpressureandmore.blogspot.com.
