Have you ever heard the term “hypertension?” It is a serious condition affecting millions of people across the globe and understanding what it is and what causes it can help keep you healthy. In this blog post, we will be discussing the difference between primary hypertension and secondary hypertension so that you can get a better understanding of how these two distinct types of high blood pressure work. We’ll go over each type in detail to provide insight into their diagnostic criteria, management strategies, potential causes, signs and symptoms, and much more! So let’s get started – Exploring the differences between Primary Hypertension vs Secondary Hypertension.
What is Primary Hypertension?
Primary hypertension is a medical term used to describe a chronic condition that involves regularly elevated blood pressure. It cannot be attributed to any specific cause and is classified as an essential or idiopathic disorder. Primary hypertension is known for its gradual onset, which can span anywhere from years to decades.
While there are usually no symptoms associated with primary hypertension, if left untreated it can lead to serious long-term health problems such as heart attacks, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Early diagnosis requires regular doctor’s visits and monitoring of both the systolic and diastolic numbers in order to properly treat and help manage this disease.
What is Secondary Hypertension?
Secondary Hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that is caused by an underlying medical condition or certain medications. It is the result of a direct problem with the kidneys, arteries, heart, or endocrine system causing the blood pressure to rise and remain elevated.
Secondary Hypertension should be monitored and addressed as it can lead to a myriad of serious health conditions such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are key for ensuring good health; however, secondary Hypertension does not usually have any symptoms in its early stages so monitoring for complications should not be neglected.
Difference between Primary and Secondary Hypertension
Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, occurs when the blood pressure of an individual is higher than normal without a known cause.
- Primary hypertension can develop gradually over time and is often caused by genetic predisposition, age, and lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, and exercise.
- On the other hand, secondary hypertension is a type of high blood pressure caused by underlying medical conditions or medications.
- Common causes of secondary hypertension are kidney disease, abnormal hormone levels, sleep apnea, thyroid issues, and certain medications like birth control pills or steroids.
Primary and Secondary Hypertension can often have the same symptoms so it is important to visit a doctor to diagnose your type of high blood pressure so it can be properly treated.
Conclusion
Primary hypertension is the most common type of hypertension, affecting 95% of all people with high blood pressure. Secondary hypertension is much less common and occurs when another condition or disease raises your blood pressure. While primary hypertension tends to develop slowly over many years, secondary hypertension can come on suddenly and may need immediate treatment. If you have symptoms of secondary hypertension, it’s important to see a doctor right away so that the underlying cause can be found and treated.
