Hypertension with no identifiable cause that develops over years is called?

• A. Primary (essential) hypertension
• B. Secondary hypertension
• C. Malignant hypertension
• D. Masked hypertension

Answer: (A)

The situation describes a form of high blood pressure that arises gradually over many years without a single identifiable cause. This is primary (essential) hypertension. It’s by far the most common type in adults and is thought to result from a mix of genetic factors and lifestyle influences that raise blood pressure over time. There isn’t a specific disease or condition driving it, so management focuses on long-term control through lifestyle changes and antihypertensive treatment to lower cardiovascular risk.

In contrast, secondary hypertension comes from an identifiable underlying condition (such as kidney disease or certain hormonal disorders), malignant hypertension is a dangerous hypertensive emergency with end-organ damage, and masked hypertension is when clinic readings are normal but blood pressure is high in everyday life.