What is the medical term for high blood pressure?

Hypertension is the medical term used to describe high blood pressure. It refers to a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high, which can lead to various health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage if left untreated.

This term is widely used in medical practice to inform both diagnosis and treatment plans. Understanding hypertension is crucial for monitoring a patient’s cardiovascular health and implementing preventative strategies to manage and reduce risks associated with elevated blood pressure. Recognizing the significance of blood pressure readings is essential, as it is one of the key vital signs used in medical assessments.