What does hypertension indicate?

Hypertension specifically refers to a condition characterized by abnormally high blood pressure, which means the pressure in the arteries is consistently elevated above normal levels. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded with two values: systolic (the pressure during a heartbeat) and diastolic (the pressure between heartbeats). When these readings are significantly higher than what is considered normal, it indicates hypertension.

This condition is clinically significant as it can lead to various health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems, if not managed properly. Therefore, recognizing hypertension is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health and implementing appropriate interventions. The other options do not relate to blood pressure specifically, making them unsuitable as definitions of hypertension.