Final answer:
Hypertension is a health condition characterized by chronically elevated blood pressure, specifically readings of 140/90 mm Hg or higher. It is a significant risk factor for many heart-related diseases and often has no symptoms, making it crucial to manage blood pressure to prevent serious complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypertension Defined
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is when the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated above the normal range. Specifically, a consistent reading of 140/90 mm Hg or higher is indicative of hypertension. Those with blood pressure readings between 120/80 and 140/90 mm Hg are considered to be in a state of prehypertension.
Risks and Consequences
With approximately 68 million Americans affected, hypertension can lead to serious health issues such as heart attack, stroke, aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure. It is often termed the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms, leaving many individuals unaware of their condition. Therefore, controlling blood pressure through medications or lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, is vital.