Is Hypertension & High Blood Pressure Same?

Any common individual will think that hypertension is the same as high blood pressure. Of course, it is a correct assumption, as both conditions are exactly the same in terms of causes, symptoms, as well as in complications. Thus, people refer to high blood pressure as hypertension and vice versa. However, in medical terminology, the meaning is entirely different. Thus, there is a difference between hypertension and high blood pressure.

What is hypertension?

Usually, hypertension is a health disorder caused due to the cardiovascular system, which is habitually unceasing in nature. The condition is distinguished by a constant increase in blood pressure. Moreover, it is categorized as either primary hypertension or secondary hypertension.

Usually, primary hypertension is the most general form, which is defined as having no precise identifiable reason. On the other hand, secondary hypertension can be diagnosed easily. It is the secondary hypertension, which causes many human deaths in the world due to serious conditions, such as heart attacks, aneurysms, strokes, heart failures, etc. Thus, it is vital for an individual to consider a healthy lifestyle change for avoiding complications related to hypertension.

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, is also considered a life-threatening disorder, but it is medically considered a symptom instead of a disorder in itself. It is defined as having a higher blood pressure of over 90 diastolic value and 140 systolic value. 

Blood pressure may be caused due to many factors, such as the deposits of cholesterol or fats along with the linings of the blood vessels, the occurrence of diseases that have an effect on the cardiovascular system, and the deteriorating or losing flexibility of the blood vessels.

Common differences between hypertension and high blood pressure

Hypertension is a long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. On the other hand, high blood pressure is a warning sign, which is defined as having a systolic BP reading and diastolic BP reading over 140 mmHg and over 90 mmHg respectively.

While hypertension can be identified with constant, persistent, elevations of blood pressure, high blood pressure can be a sensitive sign due to stress or other external factors.