Hypertensive Heart Disease
Hypertensive heart disease is a group of heart conditions that develop as a result of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a buildup of pressure within the blood vessels which causes the heart to work harder. It is considered the most common risk factor for serious heart conditions. These conditions include heart failure, ischemic heart disease and coronary artery disease. Complications of high blood pressure may involve the following:
- Weakening of the power of the heart
- Lack of blood flow to the heart
- Thickening of the heart's walls
Symptoms of Hypertensive Heart Disease
The symptoms of hypertensive heart disease vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. They may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Weakness
If left untreated, these conditions may lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Diagnosis of Hypertensive Heart Disease
Hypertensive heart disease can be diagnosed after a thorough evaluation of the patient's medical history and reported symptoms, as well as detection of certain signs, including:
- High blood pressure
- Enlarged heart
- Fluid in the lungs
- Unusual sounds in the heart
The doctor may perform an electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, stress test or chest X-ray in order to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of Hypertensive Heart Disease
Treatment for hypertensive heart disease aims to treat the cause of the condition, which involves lowering blood pressure. This can be accomplished through a combination of medication and certain lifestyle changes.
Medication
- Diuretics
- Beta-blockers
- ACE inhibitors
Lifestyle Modifications
- Low-salt diet
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding tobacco
- Avoiding alcohol
The doctor will determine an ideal treatment approach for the patient's individual condition.