Acute and Chronic Hypertension: What Clinicians Need to Know for Diagnosis and Management.

Hypertension is the most common primary diagnosis in the United States. Multiple sequelae of disease states are attributable to hypertension. Minimal to modest improvements in blood pressure can result in improved cardiovascular-related health outcomes. Despite the wealth of information available regarding the management and treatment of hypertension, the widespread control of hypertension continues to be an elusive challenge. A collaborative effort between patient and clinician using a balance of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions is essential to effectively manage and treat hypertension to avoid target organ damage. Prevention of acute organ damage related to hypertensive emergencies demands immediate intervention.