your patient's past medical history includes hypertension

Your patient's medical history indicates hypertension. This diagnosis suggests that they have had persistently high blood pressure in the past, which can negatively impact the function of the heart, kidneys, and other organs.

Hypertension is a prevalent chronic condition that may stem from various factors, including genetic predisposition, dietary habits, body weight, sedentary lifestyle, advancing age, stress, and certain health issues such as diabetes and kidney disease. Blood pressure is typically measured by two numbers, for instance, 120/80 mmHg, where the higher number signifies systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart contracts), and the lower number signifies diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart relaxes). A normal blood pressure range is generally considered to be a systolic pressure below 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure below 80 mmHg. Hypertension is categorized as having a systolic pressure consistently at or above 140 mmHg and/or a diastolic pressure consistently at or above 90 mmHg.

For patients with a history of hypertension, it is crucial to adopt a low-salt diet, maintain an appropriate body weight, engage in regular physical activity, limit alcohol consumption, abstain from smoking, and manage stress levels. Additionally, they should adhere to their physician's recommendations, monitor their blood pressure regularly, and utilize antihypertensive medications as directed by their healthcare provider. If blood pressure remains poorly controlled or if symptoms associated with hypertension arise, such as headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, they should seek medical attention without delay.