What is Hypertensive Heart Disease?

Hypertensive heart disease, also known as hypertensive cardiovascular disease or coronary artery disease, occurs when blood pressure gets too high and causes damage to the blood vessels. Over time, this can lead to heart failure, heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss.

Who is at risk for hypertensive heart disease?

There are many people who are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure or having it in the future. These include:

• Overweight or obese individuals.
• Older adults.
• Pregnant women with preeclampsia.
• African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, American Indians/Alaska Natives, and Asian Americans.
• Certain genetic conditions.

Symptoms of Hypertensive Heart Disease?

The symptoms of hypertensive heart disease may not appear until it's too late. However, some people may experience:

• Headaches.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Fatigue or weakness.
• Shortness of breath.

How is Hypertensive Heart Disease treated?

There are many treatment options for hypertensive heart disease, including:

• Medicines that lower blood pressure.
• Medicines to treat high cholesterol and diabetes.
• Lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and stress management.

How can I manage symptoms with hypertensive heart disease?

There are several things you can do to help manage your symptoms, such as:

• Keep taking the medicines your provider ordered.
• Get treated for any medical conditions you have.
• Make healthier changes to your lifestyle, such as exercising and eating a healthy diet.

How can I reduce my risk of hypertensive heart disease?

You can decrease your risk of hypertensive heart disease with lifestyle changes such as:

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

How can I prevent hypertensive heart disease?

Get your blood pressure checked once a year if you’re older than 18. Get readings more often if your numbers are high. If your blood pressure is high, bring it down and keep it down. You can purchase a blood pressure monitor to use at home. If high blood pressure is found early and treated, it may keep you from getting:

• Stroke.
• Heart disease.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Eye problems.

Other things you can do:

• Treat your diabetes.
• Treat your high cholesterol.