What can prolonged hypertension lead to?

Prolonged hypertension, or chronic high blood pressure, can lead to various adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, with heart failure being one of the most significant outcomes. Over time, the heart is forced to pump against increased resistance in the blood vessels, which demands more effort and energy from the heart muscles. This continuous strain results in the thickening of the heart muscle (left ventricular hypertrophy), impairing its ability to fill and pump blood effectively. Consequently, the heart struggles to maintain adequate circulation, ultimately leading to heart failure.

As the condition progresses, patients may experience symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention, which are indicative of heart failure. It is important to understand that while heart rhythm disorders and other complications can also arise as a result of prolonged hypertension, the direct and progressive impact of sustained high blood pressure on the heart's structure and function makes heart failure a critical consequence of this condition.