Lesson Two - Cardio-Pulmonary
Primary vs. Secondary Hypertension
Although poor diet, genetics, and other risk factors can increase a person’s likelihood of hypertension, most cases of hypertension have no clear cause. These cases are defined as primary hypertension. In a small percentage of cases, hypertension indicates the presence of another medical condition, such as kidney disorders, hormonal imbalances or drug use. In most cases, a search to determine the cause of hypertension is not economical or beneficial for the patient.
Click on each collapsible row to view the causes of primary and secondary hypertension.
A combination of factors play a role in the rise of blood pressure in primary hypertension, including
- Genetics–some people are more susceptible to developing hypertension. This is a heritable trait.
- Physical changes–such as those brought on by aging.
- Lifestyle choices–such as a poor diet and lack of physical activity.
Secondary hypertension happens as a result of having another condition. Some conditions that may cause secondary hypertension are:
- kidney disease
- obstructive sleep apnea
- congenital heart defects
- problems with your thyroid
- side effects of medication
- use of illegal drugs
- alcohol abuse or chronic use
- adrenal gland problems
- certain endocrine tumors