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Hypertension

Hypertension is treatable.


Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is associated with stroke, heart attacks and disease, kidney failure and death. High blood pressure is a disease that occurs when blood vessels - specifically arteries - become narrowed, and pressure is created by the passage of blood as it circulates through the body. As the pressure increases in the heart, the heart must pump harder, causing pressure to rise even more. As the pressure in the kidneys rise they begin to fail. The rate of loss of kidney failure may be reduced - even halted - in patients with chronic kidney disease by control of blood pressure. This may require the use of medication, as well as appropriate dietary management.

Many patients can, with early intervention, lead normal, healthy lives both at work and at home. Proper care for hypertensive patients includes regular, professional monitoring; weight loss; exercise; a low-salt and low-fat diet; decreased use of alcohol and tobacco; increased consumption of potassium; and, frequently, medication.

The Division of Kidney Diseases and Hypertension conducts clinical trials in hypertension.

Last Update

May 18, 2010
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