Secondary Hypertension: The Causes

The interesting thing about primary and secondary hypertension is their opposite characteristics. Primary hypertension is very common, but the cause of it in each individual case is primarily undetermined.Estimates of only about five percent of primary hypertension cases have a definite cause. Secondary hypertension however, is much less common, though several causes for this condition have been identified through a battery of tests and various medical studies. The following information will help you understand what causes secondary hypertension, and what to keep an eye out for; in case you could be or think you could be at risk.

Adrenal Gland Disorders

Adrenal gland disorders are very commonly associated with high blood pressure. Adrenal gland problems and disorders, such as Cushing's disease, hyperaldosteronism (producing excess aldosterone) and pheochromocytoma have a direct and dangerous effect on blood pressure. Consulting a physician is necessary for proper maintenance of these disorders.

Kidney Disease

Kidney diseases, such as a kidney tumor, kidney failure, polycystic kidney disease and a blocked or narrowed renal artery are often found in conjunction with high blood pressure. The kidneys and the circulatory system may seem totally unrelated, but in fact the condition of the kidneys and the heart in regards to blood pressure, are very much related. When the kidneys are not functioning at their optimum level, they are unable to rid the body of toxins and other invasive substances, such as electrolytes, salt, or other toxins. When this happens, the body is forced to accommodate with raising its blood pressure, because the pressure in the tissue rises due to the increased fluid in the body. Over time, this condition can become very dangerous, as not only does the blood pressure become higher, the fluids become toxic, causing a whole slew of other problems.

Pharmaceutical Drugs

While pharmaceutical drugs are designed to make someone's condition better, some have been found to raise blood pressure, among other things. Pharmaceutical drugs, such as corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory drugs such as extra strength Motrin or other anti-inflammatory with caffeine in them have been known to cause significant increases in blood pressure. Cox-2 inhibitors and weight loss medications containing ephedra are found to be dangerous to anyone at risk for developing blood pressure problems. Cold medications containing pseudoephedrine, migraine medications like Imitrex, and birth control pills can also be dangerous. These medications should be used only under the direct supervision of a health care professional, especially if the person is at risk for high blood pressure. Other causes for secondary hypertension may include sleep apnea, coarctation of the aortic valves and preeclampsia, and are often associated with extreme secondary hypertension and sudden onset. Problems with the thyroid and parathyroid are also common causes of secondary hypertension. Any time a person feels like they could be at risk for secondary hypertension, they should consult a health care professional immediately. The problem with secondary hypertension is that it is sometimes asymptomatic, so keeping a close eye on it is recommended, especially if a person has any of the aforementioned risk factors. www.webmd.com