Hypertensive Heart Disease

Hypertensive heart disease is a condition that affects the blood vessels and the heart, leading to high blood pressure and potentially causing damage to the cardiovascular system.

Symptoms of Hypertensive Heart Disease

• Shortness of breath or feeling winded even when sitting still
• Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort in the chest that may radiate to the arm, neck, jaw, or back
• Fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Swollen legs, ankles, and feet (edema)

Complications of Hypertensive Heart Disease

• Heart attack or stroke
• Chronic kidney disease or failure
• Kidney stones or other urinary tract problems
• High levels of sugar in the blood (diabetes)
• Pregnancy complications, such as preterm labor and preeclampsia

How Is Hypertensive Heart Disease Diagnosed?

Hypertensive heart disease is usually diagnosed after a doctor has detected high blood pressure in the arms. The diagnosis may be made when the blood pressure readings are not responding to treatment or when there are signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease.

Treatment for Hypertensive Heart Disease

The goal of treatment is to lower the blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, and medications, such as beta blockers or ACE inhibitors.

Lifestyle Changes for Hypertensive Heart Disease

• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
• Eat a healthy diet that is low in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats
• Avoid excessive weight gain or loss
• Exercise regularly, such as walking, cycling, or swimming

Medications for Hypertensive Heart Disease

• Calcium channel blockers
• Diuretics
• Beta blockers
• ACE inhibitors
• Potassium replacements

How Do I Manage Symptoms with Hypertensive Heart Disease?

Managing symptoms of hypertensive heart disease requires regular monitoring and follow-up appointments with your doctor. Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, can also help manage symptoms.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Hypertensive Heart Disease?

• Exercising
• Staying at a healthy weight
• Eating healthy foods

How Can I Prevent Hypertensive Heart Disease?

• Get your blood pressure checked regularly
• Treat any underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or high cholesterol

Outlook / Prognosis

The outlook for people with hypertensive heart disease varies depending on the severity of the condition and whether it has caused damage to the cardiovascular system.