Hypertension (HTN)
Medical Student's Quick Reference & Clinical Guide
1. Classification of Blood Pressure (ACC/AHA)
Category Systolic (mmHg) Diastolic (mmHg)
Normal < 120 < 80
Elevated 120–129 < 80
Stage 1 Hypertension 130–139 80–89
Stage 2 Hypertension ≥ 140 ≥ 90
Hypertensive Crisis > 180 > 120
2. Clinical Work-up
Diagnostic Tests:
• ECG: Check for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH).
• Urinalysis: Look for protein or glucose (Target organ damage).
• Blood Chemistry: Creatinine, Electrolytes (K+, Na+), Fasting Glucose.
• Lipid Profile: Assessment of overall cardiovascular risk.
3. Management Strategies
A. Lifestyle Modification (Non-Pharmacological)
• Weight Reduction: SBP reduction of 5–20 mmHg per 10 kg loss.
• DASH Diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy.
• Sodium Restriction: Limit to < 1,500 mg/day.
Medical Student's Quick Reference & Clinical Guide
1. Classification of Blood Pressure (ACC/AHA)
Category Systolic (mmHg) Diastolic (mmHg)
Normal < 120 < 80
Elevated 120–129 < 80
Stage 1 Hypertension 130–139 80–89
Stage 2 Hypertension ≥ 140 ≥ 90
Hypertensive Crisis > 180 > 120
2. Clinical Work-up
Diagnostic Tests:
• ECG: Check for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH).
• Urinalysis: Look for protein or glucose (Target organ damage).
• Blood Chemistry: Creatinine, Electrolytes (K+, Na+), Fasting Glucose.
• Lipid Profile: Assessment of overall cardiovascular risk.
3. Management Strategies
A. Lifestyle Modification (Non-Pharmacological)
• Weight Reduction: SBP reduction of 5–20 mmHg per 10 kg loss.
• DASH Diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy.
• Sodium Restriction: Limit to < 1,500 mg/day.
