What are the potential consequences of untreated chronic hypertension?

Chronic hypertension, or high blood pressure, can have severe long-term effects on various organs and systems in the body, primarily due to the increased workload on the heart and the damaging impacts on blood vessels.

One of the most significant consequences of untreated chronic hypertension is the development of heart disease. Chronic high blood pressure can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy, where the heart muscle thickens to cope with the increased pressure, ultimately resulting in heart failure or heart attack. Additionally, hypertension contributes to the formation of atherosclerosis, where arteries become narrowed due to plaque buildup, increasing the risk of coronary artery disease.

Kidney disease is another critical consequence of untreated hypertension. The kidneys are highly vascular organs that require blood flow to function effectively. High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste correctly and regulate fluids, which can progress to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.

The other options provided do not accurately reflect the primary concerns associated with untreated chronic hypertension. Muscle strain and fatigue, increased weight and lethargy, and improved circulatory efficiency are not direct consequences of hypertension and don't represent the serious health risks that hypertension poses to major organs, particularly the heart and kidneys.