Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. It often develops silently over time and may not show any symptoms until serious complications arise. If left uncontrolled, it can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and other serious health issues. Risk factors include a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, obesity, smoking, excessive salt intake, and stress. Management typically involves lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, limiting alcohol, and medication as prescribed by a doctor.

• Silent Condition: Hypertension often shows no symptoms until significant damage has occurred to the heart or other organs.
• Major Risk Factor: It increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and vision loss.
• Causes: Common causes include unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, and genetics.
• Diagnosis: It is diagnosed through regular blood pressure checks, especially in people over age 40 or those at risk.