What is defined as secondary hypertension?

Secondary hypertension is characterized by high blood pressure that arises as a direct result of an identifiable underlying condition. This might include issues such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or certain medications that lead to elevated blood pressure. In contrast to primary hypertension, which has no specific identifiable cause and is often influenced by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, secondary hypertension can often be effectively treated by addressing the root cause of the elevated blood pressure.

Understanding this distinction is crucial in clinical practice, as identifying and managing the underlying condition can result in a significant reduction, or even normalization, of blood pressure levels. This concept is essential for healthcare practitioners to differentiate between the types of hypertension to provide appropriate treatment and management strategies.