What is the medical term for high blood pressure?

The medical term for high blood pressure is hypertension. This condition occurs when the pressure in the arteries is consistently elevated, which can lead to various health issues, including heart disease and stroke. Hypertension is categorized as either primary (essential) or secondary, depending on its underlying causes. Managing hypertension is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health, and it is often addressed through lifestyle changes and medication.

Systolic refers to the pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart, while hypotension indicates low blood pressure. Apnea pertains to temporary cessation of breathing and is not related to blood pressure. Recognizing these distinctions is important for understanding cardiovascular health and the terminology associated with it.