Final answer:
Hypertension is a condition where blood pressure is persistently high, leading to various health risks. Managing it involves medications such as ARBs and lifestyle changes. Correctly dosed treatments are vital as overprescription can cause serious side effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant health concern due to its role in increasing the risk of various diseases such as coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. Medications like angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and ACE inhibitors are effective in blocking substances in the body that elevate blood pressure. It's important to manage high blood pressure not only with drugs but also through lifestyle changes such as healthy diets, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco smoke. Overprescription of certain cardiac medications, like beta blockers, can lead to serious side effects such as bradycardia or heart stoppage. Therefore, finding the correct dosage and medication type to treat hypertension is crucial to prevent complications and improve long-term health outcomes.