Hypertension Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hypertension
[ˌhaɪ.pərˈten.ʃən ]
Definition
medical condition
Hypertension is a medical condition characterized by high blood pressure. It is a common condition that can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke. Hypertension is often referred to as the 'silent killer' because it may not have any symptoms until it has caused significant damage to the body.
Synonyms
elevated blood pressure, high blood pressure.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hypertension |
Used in medical and formal contexts to refer to a chronic condition where blood pressure is consistently higher than the normal range.
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| high blood pressure |
Commonly used in both medical and everyday conversations to describe when someone's blood pressure is higher than it should be. It can refer to both temporary and chronic conditions.
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| elevated blood pressure |
Used in both medical and casual contexts to describe a temporary or slightly high blood pressure reading. It implies a state that may not always be chronic.
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Examples of usage
- Regular exercise can help lower hypertension.
- If left untreated, hypertension can lead to complications.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Health Impact
- Hypertension is often called the 'silent killer' because it usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious health problems.
- Globally, it affects nearly 1 billion people, making it a major public health concern.
- Long-term, untreated high blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
Cultural References
- Hypertension is often depicted in media as a stress-related problem, highlighting lifestyle choices affecting health.
- In some cultures, remedies and practices (like yoga or herbal teas) are suggested to help manage or reduce high blood pressure.
Preventative Measures
- Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and reducing salt intake can help prevent high blood pressure.
- Monitoring blood pressure at home can aid in early detection and management of the condition.
Scientific Advances
- Recent studies emphasize the importance of sleep quality and mental health in managing high blood pressure.
- New medications and treatments are being developed to help control blood pressure effectively.
Origin of 'hypertension'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from Greek roots: 'hyper' meaning 'over' and 'tension' from Latin meaning 'pressure or stretching'.
- The word has been used since the 19th century, reflecting its historical recognition as a medical condition.
The term 'hypertension' originated from the Latin words 'hyper-' meaning 'over' and 'tensio' meaning 'pressure'. The concept of hypertension has been recognized for centuries, with early descriptions dating back to ancient civilizations. It wasn't until the 19th and 20th centuries that advancements in medical science allowed for a better understanding and treatment of hypertension.
See also: tensioner.