Experts have long warned about the dangers of hypertension, a condition often referred to as “the silent killer” due to its lack of noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Specialists explain that hypertension can be broadly divided into two main categories: essential (or primary) hypertension and secondary hypertension.
Essential Hypertension: A Multifactorial Mystery
Medical professionals highlight that essential hypertension accounts for 90-95% of all cases. They stress that this type has no single identifiable cause. Instead, it stems from a complex interplay of genetic and lifestyle factors. Doctors point out that genetic predisposition, including variations in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), plays a key role in blood pressure regulation.
Health experts further note that environmental contributors such as high sodium intake, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate the condition. They emphasize that chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system leads to increased vascular resistance and elevated blood pressure over time.
Secondary Hypertension: Uncovering the Underlying Causes
In contrast, specialists explain that secondary hypertension, which accounts for around 5-10% of cases, arises from identifiable medical conditions. These may include renal diseases, endocrine disorders, or even the prolonged use of certain medications.
Doctors have pointed out that conditions like hyperaldosteronism cause excessive retention of sodium, leading to higher blood pressure. Similarly, they mention that pheochromocytomas—tumors of the adrenal gland—secrete excess catecholamines, causing severe spikes in blood pressure. They also remind readers that secondary hypertension can often be managed more effectively once its underlying cause is treated.
Public health officials continue to stress the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring and lifestyle adjustments. As one doctor put it, “Early detection is crucial. Left uncontrolled, hypertension significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.”
What lies ahead in combating this silent epidemic remains a critical question for medical researchers and policymakers alike.
