Hypertensive heart disease is caused by high blood pressure (hypertension) and manifests as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and enlargement of the heart. It is the leading cause of hypertensive illness and death.
Symptoms
Hypertensive heart disease symptoms include shortness of breath, irregular pulse, swelling in the feet and ankles, and heart palpitations.
Causes
High blood pressure is the leading cause of heart disease because it thickens the heart muscle and blood vessel walls, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Causes of high blood pressure include stress, high sodium in the diet, underlying medical conditions, medications and heredity.
Diagnosis
Tests to help diagnose hypertensive heart disease and its causes can include blood pressure readings, an echocardiogram, chest X-ray, CT scan, and angiogram.
Prognosis
Prognosis for patients with hypertensive heart disease depends on the size of the heart's left ventricle. If it becomes enlarged, the risk for complications increases. Complications include heart attack, heart failure, arrythmias and angina.
Prevention/Solution
Risk of hypertensive heart disease can be reduced by eating a low-fat diet and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Adhering to a regular exercise regimen and stopping smoking are both beneficial measures to take in preventing high blood pressure. If you already have hypertension, always follow your physician's orders for treatment.
