Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the force of blood against the walls of arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed as two numbers. The top number (systolic pressure) measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while the bottom number (diastolic pressure) measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.

Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it can cause damage to the heart, blood vessels, and other organs without causing any noticeable symptoms. However, over time, hypertension can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

There are two types of hypertension: primary (essential) hypertension, which is the most common type and has no identifiable cause, and secondary hypertension, which is caused by an underlying condition such as kidney disease, sleep apnea, or thyroid problems.

Treatment for hypertension may include lifestyle changes such as weight loss, regular exercise, and a healthy diet, as well as medication to lower blood pressure. It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and follow the recommended treatment plan to reduce the risk of complications associated with hypertension.