What is a common complication of untreated hypertension?

Untreated hypertension can lead to a variety of serious health complications, with stroke being one of the most significant risks. High blood pressure can cause damage to the arteries over time, making them less elastic and more prone to plaque buildup. This process can lead to atherosclerosis, narrowing the arteries and increasing the risk of a blockage or rupture.

In the case of a stroke, high blood pressure can precipitate both ischemic strokes, where blood flow to part of the brain is cut off due to blocked arteries, and hemorrhagic strokes, which occur when weakened blood vessels burst. Consequently, controlling hypertension is crucial in reducing the risk of these life-threatening events.

Other options, while related to health complications, do not directly stem from untreated hypertension in the same way. For example, heart failure can be a result of long-standing hypertension, but it is more of a consequence than a direct complication. Diabetes is a chronic condition associated with a different set of risk factors, and kidney stones are not typically linked to hypertension. Understanding the pathway from high blood pressure to stroke emphasizes the importance of managing hypertension to prevent serious health outcomes.