What is the primary difference between primary hypertension and secondary hypertension?

The primary distinction between primary hypertension and secondary hypertension lies in the presence of known physiological causes. Primary hypertension, which accounts for the majority of hypertension cases, has no identifiable cause and is often linked to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. In contrast, secondary hypertension results from a specific underlying condition, such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or particular medications. The identification of these causes can lead to targeted treatments that may resolve the high blood pressure once the underlying condition is addressed.

While factors such as ethnicity, age, and gender can play a role in the prevalence and risk factors associated with hypertension, they do not define the primary difference between primary and secondary hypertension. Therefore, understanding that secondary hypertension arises from identifiable physiological conditions is key to differentiating it from primary hypertension.