Disorder - Systemic hypertension

Organ Systems Involved
Cardiovascular

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic; Epistaxis; Hyperthyroidism; Ocular disease; Renal disease

Alternative Names
High blood pressure

Presenting Signs

Systemic hypertension refers to a continued high pressure of blood in the blood vessels (arteries). It usually occurs in conjunction with another disease, especially chronic kidney disease. Symptoms result from damage to the eye, kidney, heart and brain, due to the high pressure of blood moving through these organs. Blindness (usually permanent) in both eyes is relatively common, resulting from damage to the retina (the structure at the back of each eye that receives light). Blood leakage inside the eye is sometimes seen. Ongoing damage to the kidneys can cause excessive urination and thirst, persistently colourless urine and shrunken kidneys. An abnormal heart noise (murmur) may be heard with a stethoscope. Neurological signs can include sudden collapse, episodes of convulsive movements (seizures), wobbly or uncoordinated movement, back and forth movement of the eyes, and dragging of the hind legs. Occasional bleeding from the nostrils occurs.

Cats at Risk

Old cats (>10 years), obese cats and those that have been on a high salt diet are at greater risk. Those with chronic kidney disease and overactive thyroid glands are also predisposed.

Breeds Affected
Birman
Chartreux
Persian
Siamese


Treatment

Medical: treatment consists of a low-salt diet and drugs to reduce blood pressure. Amlodipine is an effective drug which causes dilation of blood vessels in the body. It may be given in combination with drugs that reduce the volume of circulating blood. Treatment may control organ damage and potentially prolong life.

PubMed References
Systemic hypertension

Contributor
Michael Healy