Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 401.9      ICD10: I10      ICD11: BA00

Essential hypertension, also known as primary hypertension, is the most common type of high blood pressure.
It's defined as high blood pressure that doesn't have a known underlying cause like kidney disease, medication side effects, or other identifiable medical conditions. Think of it as hypertension that develops on its own, often gradually, over time.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

No Identifiable Cause: This is the defining characteristic. Doctors can't pinpoint a specific disease or factor that's causing the high blood pressure.

Gradual Development: Essential hypertension typically develops slowly over many years. People often have it for a long time before they are diagnosed, as it can be asymptomatic (showing no symptoms).

Likely Multifactorial: While there's no single cause, essential hypertension is thought to be the result of a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. These factors can influence the body's natural mechanisms for regulating blood pressure.

Risk Factors: Numerous factors can increase the risk of developing essential hypertension, including:

Age: The risk increases with age.
Family history: Having a close relative with high blood pressure significantly raises your risk.
Race/Ethnicity: High blood pressure is more common in African Americans than in Caucasians.
Obesity/Overweight: Excess weight puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels.
Diet: High sodium (salt) intake, low potassium intake, and diets high in saturated and trans fats contribute.
Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk.
Smoking: Damages blood vessel walls and increases blood pressure.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Can raise blood pressure.
Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to elevated blood pressure.
Insulin Resistance: Often associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Sleep Apnea: Disrupts sleep and can elevate blood pressure.

Diagnosis: Essential hypertension is diagnosed through repeated blood pressure measurements that are consistently above the normal range (typically 120/80 mmHg, but guidelines vary, so it's important to check with your doctor). Doctors will also rule out other possible causes of hypertension through physical exams, blood tests, and urine tests.

Management: Management typically involves lifestyle modifications and, in many cases, medication.

Lifestyle Changes:
Dietary changes (DASH diet, low sodium, increased potassium)
Regular exercise
Weight management
Smoking cessation
Limiting alcohol consumption
Stress management techniques

Medications: Various types of medications can help lower blood pressure, including diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. The choice of medication depends on individual factors and other health conditions.

Why is it important to treat?: Untreated high blood pressure can lead to serious health complications, including:

Heart attack
Stroke
Heart failure
Kidney disease
Vision loss
Sexual dysfunction

In summary, essential hypertension is high blood pressure without a known underlying medical cause. It's likely due to a combination of genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors and requires long-term management to prevent serious health problems.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.