Most people think that there is only one type of hypertension. They usually refer to it as high blood pressure. It has been called the “silent killer”. That’s because there usually are no symptoms to alert the sufferer. It is a good idea to have your blood pressure checked regularly.

The common type is known as primary hypertension sometimes called essential. Even though it is the most diagnosed type, there is no known cause.

Next, there is the type called secondary hypertension. It is usually caused by factors that are sometimes curable. Some of the causes are pregnancy related. It can also be brought on by thyroid dysfunction, tumors, sleep apnea, alcohol, and some medications to just name a few.

Malignant Hypertension is the worst type. It is very severe and it just keeps getting worse with time. It very quickly will lead to organ damage. If it is not properly treated, it will result in death in as little as five years for most sufferers. Intensive treatment can reverse the condition and prevent complications. It is not brought on by cancer. And, it is not caused by any malignancy.

Isolated Systolic type may be diagnosed in older folks. The systolic, which is the top number, stays above 160. And, the diastolic is below 90. This is caused by the stiffening of the arteries. And the loss of the elasticity in arteries like the aorta; sometimes diagnosed as arteriosclerosis. It is very important to receive treatment, because it can help prevent strokes and heart disease. Read the rest of this entry »