Causes
Primary (or essential) hypertension is when the cause is unknown.
The majority of hypertension cases are primary. When there is an underlying
problem such as kidney disease or hormonal derangements that can cause hypertension,
it is called secondary hypertension. When it is possible to correct the
underlying cause, high blood pressure usually improves or may even return to
normal.
Other factors that can contribute to hypertension include:
- age (blood pressure usually increases with age)
- diet
- excessive alcohol consumption
- lack of exercise
- obesity
- stress
- sleep apnea