Accepted Answer

Several factors and conditions contribute to development of hypertension: genetics, obesity
sedentary life, dietary salt, alcohol ( even moderate use)stress and aging

Hypertension where the cause is not apparent is called essential hypertension. This is probably a function of heredity

Secondary hypertension, on the other hand, is a result of another condition or disorder, such as:

Atherosclerosis, or "hardening of the arteries"
Diabetes
Obesity
Chronic pain
Alcoholism
Disorders of the adrenal gland
Kidney disease or failure
Drugs such as corticosteroids
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Motrin or Aleve or Naprosyn
Weight loss drugs
Cold medications that include pseudoephedrine Birth control pills (the estrogen component), Migraine medications (such as Imitrex)


Hypertension will make you feel like a guniea pig-if your Doctor is diligent. First the cause or contributing factors wil be explored. Considering the list this will mean alot of tests. If the hypertension is secondary then the primary cause must be treated.

If you have essential Hypertension the drug cocktail needed to balace your numbers is complex and takes trial and error for maximum effect.

Finally, since Hypertension damages the heart, vessals, and several organs over time you must have function tests and complete physicals regularly.

The good news is Hypertension is controllable, and with changes in diet, exercise, medication and attention to your overall health you can be healthy once again!

I hope this helps. Let me know if I can add anything. Take care and good luck.

Expert:	Christy Hammond
Pos. Feedback:	99.7 %
Accepts:
Answered:	3/27/2006

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

I have a B.S.N and more than 10 years of training and experience in patient care and education