Hypertension

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition characterized by elevated blood pressure within the arteries. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it around the body. Hypertension occurs when this pressure is consistently higher than the normal range, which can lead to health problems and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Hypertension can be caused by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and underlying health conditions. Common causes include obesity, lack of physical activity, excessive salt intake, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and certain medical conditions like kidney disease or hormonal disorders.