Final answer:
Hypertension can lead to various heart diseases including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is often associated with a reduced ejection fraction indicating systolic dysfunction (3). Uncontrolled high blood pressure also can cause arteriosclerosis, heart attacks, stroke, and kidney failure. Effective management and treatment of hypertension are crucial to prevent these severe complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypertension Complications in the Cardiovascular System
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic condition where the arterial blood pressure is consistently elevated. This condition puts a strain on the cardiovascular system, leading to various types of heart disease and complications. One of the potential outcomes of persistent hypertension is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which can result in a reduced ejection fraction. Ejection fraction is the percentage of blood that is pumped out of the heart with each contraction, and a reduced ejection fraction suggests that the heart is not pumping efficiently, indicating systolic dysfunction. Although high blood pressure can lead to both systolic and diastolic dysfunction, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy specifically affects the heart muscle, making it abnormally thick and potentially leading to such systolic issues.
Other potential complications due to hypertension include arteriosclerosis, which is a stiffening or hardening of the artery walls that reduces their ability to expand and contract. This condition leads to increased resistance within the vessels, elevating blood pressure further and causing the heart to work harder. In addition, uncontrolled hypertension can lead to heart attacks, stroke, kidney failure, and peripheral arterial disease as it causes damage to the arterial walls and affects vascular homeostasis.
It is vital to recognize the importance of controlling blood pressure through lifestyle changes or medication to mitigate these severe risks. Doctors use blood pressure measurements, such as 120/80 mm Hg for normal and above 130/80 mm Hg as a threshold for hypertension, to identify and manage the condition.