Final answer:
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is defined as having a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or higher and is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular diseases. It frequently lacks symptoms, leading individuals to remain unaware of their condition. Controlling it through lifestyle changes and medication is essential for preventing serious complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypertension, often referred to as high blood pressure, is a medical condition characterized by chronically elevated pressure in the arteries. Specific criteria define hypertension as blood pressure measurements of 140/90 mm Hg or higher on a persistent basis. While prehypertension occurs with readings between 120/80 and 140/90 mm Hg. It is a major risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases and related complications such as heart attack, stroke, aneurysms, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure. Unfortunately, hypertension is known as the "silent killer" because it frequently does not present with any noticeable symptoms, leading to underdiagnosis and under-treatment. Controlling hypertension through medications, lifestyle changes, exercise, and certain foods, like skim milk and spinach, is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health and preventing adverse events.