How Does Hypertension Damage the Heart?

Hypertension is persistently high blood pressure against artery walls. Over years, this high pressure causes arterial wall thickening and hardening (atherosclerosis). This process affects all blood vessels, but the most significant damage occurs in the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.

The most important cardiac effect is left ventricular hypertrophy. The heart must work harder to pump against high pressure, causing the muscle to thicken. Thickened heart muscle requires more oxygen, but the coronary arteries may not meet this increased demand.

Uncontrolled hypertension paves the way for heart failure, coronary artery disease, heart attack, and arrhythmias (especially atrial fibrillation). It also impairs kidney function and increases stroke risk.

Regular blood pressure monitoring, healthy eating (salt restriction), regular exercise, and medication when needed can prevent or slow hypertension-related organ damage.