hypertension

n. high blood pressure: a circulatory disorder characterized by persistent arterial blood pressure that exceeds a standard, which usually is 140/90 mmHg. In the majority of cases, there is no obvious cause (see essential hypertension). In a few people, high blood pressure can be traced to a known cause, such as tumors of the adrenal gland, chronic kidney disease, hormone abnormalities, the use of oral contraceptives, or pregnancy. This is called secondary hypertension; it is usually cured if its cause is removed or is corrected. Malignant hypertension is a form of very high blood pressure that comes on quickly, usually accompanied by retinal hemorrhaging, and can result in organ damage if not immediately treated. Compare hypotension. —hypertensive adj.

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Psychology term of the day

February 25th 2025

perspective

1. the ability to view objects, events, and ideas in realistic proportions and relationships.

2. the ability to interpret relative position, size, and distance of objects in a plane surface as if they were three-dimensional.

3. the capacity of an individual to take into account and potentially understand the perceptions, attitudes, or behaviors of himself or herself and of other individuals.

4. a particular way of looking at events or situations: a stance or philosophical position.