Hypertension is primarily characterized by which condition?

Hypertension is primarily characterized by high blood pressure, which is a condition where the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. This can lead to various health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. The measurement of blood pressure involves two numbers: systolic and diastolic pressure. When these readings are elevated – generally above 130/80 mmHg – a diagnosis of hypertension is made.

Other conditions listed, such as low blood pressure, increased heart rate, and fluid retention, do not define hypertension. Low blood pressure refers to hypotension, which is the opposite of hypertension. An increased heart rate may occur as a result of various factors, but it is not a primary characteristic of hypertension. Fluid retention can occur in individuals with hypertension but is not itself a defining feature. Thus, high blood pressure is the accurate and defining characteristic of hypertension.