Etiologies-hypertension

• Essential (95%): onset 25–55 y; ⊕ FHx. Unclear mechanism but ? additive microvasc renal injury over time w/ contribution of hyperactive sympathetics (NEJM 2002;346:913). ↑ Age → ↓ art compliance → HTN. Genetics + environment involved (Nature 2011;478:103).
• Secondary: Consider if Pt <20 or >50 y or if sudden onset, severe, refractory HTN

Secondary Causes of Hypertension