HTN, which stands for Hypertension, is a medical term for high blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it around the body. When this pressure is consistently elevated, it can lead to hypertension.
Hypertension is a significant health concern because it can strain the cardiovascular system, damage blood vessels, and increase the risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and more.
- Blood pressure is typically measured with two numbers:
- Systolic Pressure: The higher number, which represents the pressure when the heart contracts (beats).
- Diastolic Pressure: The lower number, which represents the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.
A standard blood pressure reading is expressed as systolic over diastolic, for example, “120/80 mm Hg” (millimeters of mercury). Normal blood pressure is typically considered to be around 120/80 mm Hg.
Hypertension is often diagnosed when blood pressure consistently measures at or above 130/80 mm Hg. It is categorized into different stages of severity, with more aggressive management and treatment strategies recommended for higher stages.
Managing hypertension usually involves lifestyle modifications, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and potentially medications prescribed by a healthcare professional. Regular monitoring and management of blood pressure are essential for preventing complications associated with high blood pressure.