What condition is defined as chronically elevated blood pressure?

Hypertension is defined as chronically elevated blood pressure, specifically when the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. This condition is a significant risk factor for many cardiovascular diseases, as it can lead to damage of the heart, arteries, and other organs over time. Blood pressure is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and categorized by two measurements: systolic (the pressure during a heartbeat) and diastolic (the pressure between heartbeats). When either or both of these numbers are consistently at or above 130/80 mmHg, a diagnosis of hypertension can be made.

In contrast, other conditions listed do not involve chronically elevated blood pressure. For instance, arrhythmia relates to irregular heart rhythms, hypotension refers to abnormally low blood pressure, and cardiomyopathy involves diseases of the heart muscle itself. Understanding hypertension is crucial for recognizing and managing cardiovascular health effectively.