Definition of Hypertension | CHAPTER 5 | Anatomy and Physiology

Definition of Hypertension-The course is designed for the basic understanding of anatomical structures and physiological functions of human body, musculoskeletal system, digestive system, respiratory system; cardiovascular system; urinary system, endocrine system, reproductive system, nervous system, hematologic system, sensory organs, integumentary system, and immune system.The aim of the course is to acquire knowledge and skills regarding anatomy and physiology.

Definition of Hypertension

Hypertension:

Persistent rise of blood pressure (systolic or diastolic) above the normal limit (140/90 mm of Hg) in respect upon age & sex of a person.

Types of hypertension-

1. Primary or essential hypertension.
2. Secondary hypertension (due to other pathology)

Causes of hypertension:

A. Primary or essential hypertension – No exact cause is found (idiopathic), however probable causes are:

1. Genetic inheritance
2. Psychological stress
3. Environmental factor.

B. Secondary hypertension -Some people have high blood pressure caused by an underlying condition.

a. Coarctation of aorta.

b. Renal disease-

1. Glomerulonephritis
2. Polycystic kidney disease
3. Renal artery stenosis

c. Endocrine disorder-

1. Phaeochromocytoma (tumor of adrenal medulla)
2. Cushing’s syndrom (excess glucocorticoid).
3. Conn’s syndrom (excess mineralocorticoid).

d. Drugs:

1. Oral contraceptives containing estrogen.
2. NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

(Ref: Guyton and Hall, 12 ed, P-218.)

A young man having blood pressure 120/70 mm Hg

Here.

The systolic pressure of the young man is 120 mmHg and diastolic is 70mmHg

We know that, pulse pressure

= Systolic pressure Diastolic pressure

= 120 mm Hg-70 mm Hg 50 mm Hg

And, the mean pressure = Diastolic pressure + rd of the pulse pressure

= 70+(x50)

= 70+50

= 86.66 mmHg

So, the pulse pressure of the young man is 50 mm Hg. and the mean pressure is 86.66 mmHg

Significance of mean blood pressure:

1. It is helpful to flow of blood in different organs
2. fed mean pressure causes hypertension.

Danger triangle of the face

The danger triangle of the face consists of the area from the corners of the mouth to the bridge of the nose. including the nose and maxilla. Due to the special nature of the blood supply to the human nose and surrounding area, it is possible for retrograde infections from the nasal area to spread to the brain.

This is possible because of venous communication (via the ophthalmic vein) between the facial vein and the cavernous sinus. The cavernous sinus lies within the cranial cavity, between layers of the meninges and is a major conduit of venous drainage from the brain.

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