What is Secondary Hypertension?
Secondary hypertension is a less common type of high blood pressure. It is caused by an underlying condition that affects the kidneys, arteries, heart, or endocrine system. Unlike primary hypertension, which has no known cause, secondary hypertension is caused by an identifiable medical condition.
Causes of Secondary Hypertension
Secondary hypertension can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, including:
- Kidney disease
- Adrenal gland tumors
- Thyroid problems
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Coarctation of the aorta
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension
Symptoms of Secondary Hypertension
Most people with secondary hypertension do not experience any symptoms. However, some people may experience symptoms related to the underlying condition that is causing their high blood pressure.
Some common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Visual changes
Treatment for Secondary Hypertension
The treatment for secondary hypertension depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, treating the underlying condition may be enough to lower blood pressure. For example, if the cause of secondary hypertension is obstructive sleep apnea, treatment with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device may be effective.
In other cases, medication may be necessary to lower blood pressure. Common medications used to treat secondary hypertension include:
- Diuretics
- Beta blockers
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Calcium channel blockers
- Aldosterone antagonists
Conclusion
Secondary hypertension is a less common type of high blood pressure that is caused by an underlying medical condition. If you have been diagnosed with secondary hypertension, it is important to work closely with your doctor to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
By following your treatment plan and making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking, you can help manage your blood pressure and reduce your risk of complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.