Hypertension: A Clinical Guide

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a chronic medical condition characterized by persistent levels of high blood pressure in the arteries. It is a major risk factor for heart failure, chronic kidney disease, dementia, stroke, coronary artery disease, etc. It can occur due to a high salt intake, smoking, alcohol use and excess body weight. Endocrine disorders, chronic kidney disease, use of birth control pills, and narrowing of the kidney arteries can also cause hypertension. After a diagnosis of hypertension has been ascertained with blood pressure measurements, it is vital that the cause of the condition is understood. To do so, tests for diabetes and cholesterol, serum creatinine evaluation, physical examination and a review of medical history are performed. Weight loss, decreased salt in diet, physical exercise and reducing alcohol intake can lower blood pressure. This book discusses the fundamentals as well as modern approaches in the management of hypertension. It unravels the recent studies in the pathophysiology and causes of hypertension. This book aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this medical condition.