MedicWeb - Hypertension Info Site

Hypertension Lexicon

Insulin Resistance Syndrome
A diminished ability to respond to the hormone insulin, which leads to an accumulation of glucose in the body (also known as "Metabolic Syndrome").

Ischemic Stroke
A stroke caused by a blood clot which reaches the brain. Blood clots result from the accumulation of plaque in the arteries.

Isolated Systolic Hypertension
A condition in which systolic pressure rises above 140 mm Hg, while diastolic pressure remains below 90.

Kidney Failure
A condition caused by different diseases, in which the kidneys cannot get rid of salts, water and other waste products, thus leading to increased blood pressure.

Labile Hypertension
An abrupt and repeated fluctuation of the blood pressure.

Loop Diuretics
A class of diuretic drugs that remove a large amount of sodium from the kidneys.

Magnesium
An element found to be deficient in many hypertensive patients. May be found in leafy vegetables, broccoli and string-beans.

Malignant Hypertension
A rise of blood pressure to dangerous levels. This most threatening form of hypertension is extremely rare, and may sometimes be related to drug abuse. An episode of malignant hypertension calls for immediate hospitalization.

Meditation
A relaxing technique that may help lower blood pressure.

Metabolic Syndrome
See Insulin Resistance Syndrome.

From the Lexicon
Hypertensive Retinopathy
Damage caused to the retina’s blood vessels as a result of hypertension.
Tip of the Day
Drinking is essential. Your first step towards better health and lower blood pressure is plenty of fresh water.