Uncontrolled hypertension, also known as poorly managed or untreated high blood pressure, can lead to several serious complications. Some potential complications of uncontrolled hypertension include:
1. Heart Disease:
High blood pressure can lead to heart diseases such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, and heart failure.
2. Stroke:
Uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of stroke, which occurs when there is a blockage or rupture of blood vessels in the brain.
3. Kidney Damage:
Chronic hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney failure or other kidney-related problems.
4. Vision Problems:
High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems or even vision loss.
5. Aneurysms:
Persistent high blood pressure can weaken blood vessel walls, leading to the formation of aneurysms, which are bulging and potentially rupturing blood vessels.
6. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD):
Uncontrolled hypertension can cause reduced blood flow to the limbs, leading to PAD, characterized by pain and difficulty walking.
7. Cognitive Impairment:
Chronic hypertension has been linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
8. Erectile Dysfunction:
High blood pressure can affect blood flow to the penis, leading to erectile dysfunction in men.
It is essential to manage hypertension through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring to reduce the risk of these complications.
References:
American Heart Association. (2021). Why Control Blood Pressure? Retrieved from: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/why-high-blood-pressure-is-a-silent-killer/high-blood-pressure-and-what-it-means
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