What are the effects of hypertension on the heart?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, places an increased workload on the heart, compelling it to pump against greater resistance. Over time, this heightened workload can lead to significant changes and detrimental effects on cardiac structure and function. One major consequence is the development of heart failure, where the heart can't pump blood effectively due to the strain imposed by elevated pressures.

Additionally, chronic hypertension is a well-established risk factor for acute cardiovascular events such as heart attacks. The sustained high pressures can damage the arterial walls, contribute to atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries), and lead to increased chances of clot formation, all of which heighten the risk of myocardial infarction.

Thus, understanding the implications of hypertension is crucial for anticipating its effects on heart health, confirming that heart failure and the increased risk of heart attacks are indeed significant outcomes associated with untreated or poorly managed high blood pressure.