What is the medical term for high blood pressure?

The medical term for high blood pressure is hypertension. This condition occurs when the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Hypertension can lead to serious health complications, such as heart disease and stroke, making it a critical aspect of cardiovascular health that requires monitoring and management.

Understanding hypertension is essential for healthcare professionals as they assess and treat patients. It is usually defined by specific measurements, and factors such as lifestyle, diet, and genetic predispositions can influence elevated blood pressure levels.

The other terms listed refer to different medical conditions: hypotension signifies low blood pressure; hyperglycemia refers to elevated blood sugar levels, typically associated with diabetes; and ischemia is a condition characterized by insufficient blood flow to tissues, which can lead to tissue damage. Appreciating the nuances between these terms aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment in medical practice.