Final answer:
Hypertension is persistently high blood pressure that can lead to various health issues, while atherosclerosis involves fatty plaque buildups in arteries, both of which John is experiencing. They are related as hypertension can worsen atherosclerosis. Lifestyle changes like a healthier diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking are suggested to mitigate risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is defined as blood pressure that is consistently at or above 140/90 mm Hg. It forces the heart to pump harder and may lead to serious health complications like heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and blindness if untreated. Atherosclerosis, on the other hand, is characterized by the buildup of fatty plaques within the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and possibly to heart attacks and strokes as the plaques grow and obstruct blood vessels. These two conditions are often related as hypertension can accelerate the process of atherosclerosis by damaging the inner lining of arteries and contributing to plaque buildup.
Due to its lack of symptoms, hypertension is often referred to as the "silent killer"; many individuals do not realize they have it until significant damage has occurred. For someone like John, who is at risk due to being overweight and smoking, making lifestyle changes is crucial for prevention of cardiovascular disease. Recommended changes include adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and quitting smoking. These changes can help to manage weight, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.