Introducing Sarah. A vibrant professional, she keeps up with a busy schedule and maintains a reasonably healthy lifestyle. However, a recent visit to the doctor unveiled an unexpected reality: high blood pressure.
Unlike most, Sarah’s condition isn’t primarily due to lifestyle. Her hypertension arises from an identifiable, underlying condition.
Welcome to the world of secondary hypertension.
Decoding Secondary Hypertension
Secondary hypertension differs from its primary counterpart as a specific medical condition causes it. It accounts for about 5 percent of all hypertension cases, making it less familiar but equally significant.
How do doctors diagnose secondary hypertension? When blood pressure is difficult to control with lifestyle changes and/or multiple pharmaceuticals, the diagnosis of secondary hypertension should be entertained.
A good history and physical examination may also uncover one of the following causes of secondary hypertension.
The Underlying Triggers
So, what causes secondary hypertension? The triggers include renal abnormalities, hormonal disorders, certain medications, or congenital heart defects. A few primary culprits include:
- Sleep Apnea: This sleep disorder, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing, has been linked to elevated blood pressure levels.
- Kidney Disease: Impaired kidney function can disrupt blood pressure regulation.
- Adrenal Gland Issues: Disorders like Cushing’s syndrome or pheochromocytoma can lead to hypertension.
- Thyroid Problems: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can influence blood pressure levels.
- Medication Side Effects: Various medications, from steroids to antacids to common over-the-counter pain relievers, can raise blood pressure. Notably, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, often impact blood pressure due to their prevalent use.
- Congenital Defects: Structural problems from birth in blood vessels can prompt hypertension. For example, fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) can cause abnormal cell growths in the walls of the arteries, leading to high blood pressure. Also, an aortic coarctation, where the aorta is more narrow than usual, may also lead to hypertension.
While secondary hypertension is directly linked to these conditions, it’s also influenced by various lifestyle factors.
Tackling Secondary Hypertension Head-On
A diagnosis of secondary hypertension often requires a two-pronged approach. Firstly, addressing the root medical condition is vital. This might involve managing medications or undergoing specific treatments.
Simultaneously, looking at lifestyle changes is essential. While the primary cause might be medical, lifestyle factors can still exacerbate the condition. Heeding the Eat Well, Live Well, Think Well philosophy, secondary hypertension can be overcome, even with underlying health conditions. In fact, many times, both health issues can be addressed simultaneously.
Next Steps
Diagnosed with secondary hypertension and feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Reach out for a complimentary 20-minute chat with our skilled health coaches at NHD.
With expertise in navigating the complexities of hypertension, we’re here to guide your steps towards a heart that’s not just surviving but thriving. Remember, your health deserves more than a fleeting thought—it demands action.
