MedicWeb - Hypertension Info Site

Hypertension Lexicon

Obesity
Overweight, with a body mass index (BMI) of over 30.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
A class of fats present in cold water fish, that may help  reduce formation of blood clots and lower blood pressure.

Pheochromocytoma
A tumor of the adrenal gland - usually non-malignant - which causes hypertension.

Plaque
Large accumulations of fatty deposits on artery walls.

Potassium
An element involved in the blood pressure regulating mechanism. Potassium may be found in celery, bananas, lima beans and other fruit and vegetables.

Potassium-Sparing Diuretics
A class of diuretic drugs that remove sodium from the kidneys, while helping the body retain potassium.

Preeclampsia
A rise in blood pressure during pregnancy, which occurs in about 7% of women.

Prehypertension
A condition defining people at increased risk of hypertension. A diagnosis of prehypertension, followed up by lifestyle changes, may prevent the development of high blood pressure.

Pulse Pressure
The difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressures.

Renal Hypertension
Hypertension caused by a kidney disease or disorder, which accounts for many cases of secondary hypertension.

Resistant (or Refractory) High Blood Pressure
Hypertension that does not respond positively to medication. This sometimes indicates that the condition's source has not yet been discovered.

Resperate
A device that enables patients to exercise slow paced breathing, thus helping to lower blood pressure.

From the Lexicon
Preeclampsia
A rise in blood pressure during pregnancy, which occurs in about 7% of women.
Tip of the Day
In order to reduce stress and lower blood pressure, try taking a short nap during the day.