what is essential hypertention?

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, occurs when the systolic pressure is consistently over 140 mm Hg, or the diastolic blood pressure is consistently over 90 mm Hg. Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood pumped, by the actions of the heart, and by the size and condition of the arteries. Many other factors can affect blood pressure including the water volume in the body; salt content of the body; condition of the kidneys, nervous system, or blood vessels; and various hormone levels in the bodysome of the symptoms are:Fatigue Confusion Visual changes Nausea and vomiting Anxiety Perspiration Pale or red skin An angina-like pain, crushing chest pain Note: There are usually no symptoms.As part of your treatment, it is important to have your blood pressure checked by your doctor at regular intervals. Your doctor will tell you how often that needs to be.You may want to consider a home blood pressure monitor as well. Bring the readings to your doctor when you go for your visits.Necessary lifestyle changes to help bring your blood pressure down include:Weight loss if you have extra pounds Regular exercise Follow a low fat diet rich in fish, chicken, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and very light on red meats Limit sodium intake; talk to your doctor or nutritionist about how best to do this Medications that may be prescribed are listed below. Many people need 2 or more medications to control blood pressure.Diuretics Beta-blockers Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) Calcium channel blockers Hydralazine, clonidine, doxazosin, and prazosin Expectations (prognosis) Return to top Essential hypertension is controllable with proper treatment. It requires lifelong monitoring, and treatment may require periodic adjustments.