Question

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R.L. is a 45-yr-old black man with no history of hypertension. At a
screening clinic 2 months ago, his BP was 150/95 mm Hg. His HCP has
followed him for the past month. During this ti

Answer 1

Hypertension is defined as sustained blood pressure readings of 140/90 mm Hg or higher, with current guidelines suggesting intervention at 130/80 mm Hg. It is commonly asymptomatic but has severe consequences if untreated. Management includes medication and lifestyle changes, emphasizing the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring.

Step-by-step explanation:

Chronically elevated blood pressure is clinically defined as hypertension, characterized by persistent blood pressure measurements of 140/90 mm Hg or above. According to more recent guidelines from the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association, normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg, and hypertension should be addressed at 130/80 mm Hg. Recognition and management of hypertension are crucial since it is often a silent condition, with severe complications such as heart attack, stroke, aneurysm development, peripheral arterial disease, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure if left uncontrolled.

Managing hypertension involves a combination of medications and lifestyle modifications. This condition's silent nature makes it imperative to regularly monitor blood pressure, as early intervention can significantly lower the risks associated with this condition and lead to better long-term cardiovascular health.