Secondary Hypertension
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Secondary Hypertension
A cause can be identified in about 5% of hypertension cases. Such cases are referred to as "secondary hypertension", this name reflecting that the high blood pressure in question is secondary to (caused by) some other underlying disease state. Examples of conditions that can cause secondary hypertension follow:
Isolated Systolic Hypertension
Isolated systolic hypertension is present when systolic (heart beat) pressure is greater than 160 mmHg, but diastolic (heart rest) pressure is normal (80mmHg or less). The condition is generally related to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).
Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension
Pregnancy is usually accompanied by a slight increase in blood pressure (which is considered normal). However, if the average blood pressure 15 mmHg or more above pre-pregnancy pressure levels, the label “pregnancy induced hypertension” is applied. In addition, there is a condition in pregnancy called ‘pre-eclampsia' which includes hypertension as a feature.
White Coat Hypertension
In white coat hypertension, high blood pressure is evident in the doctor's office but not at home. Visiting the doctor is stressful; white coat hypertension may account for upwards of 20% of mild high blood pressure cases. Though in the past thought to be benign, white coat hypertension has been shown to predict heart disease. Treating this mild form of hypertension may reduce the risk of future heart disease.