Which condition is commonly a result of prolonged hypertension?

Prolonged hypertension, or chronic high blood pressure, can lead to significant cardiovascular complications over time. One of the most serious outcomes of untreated or poorly managed hypertension is heart failure. The heart is continually subjected to increased pressure, which can cause the heart muscle to thicken and weaken, ultimately impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. This condition, known as left ventricular hypertrophy, can progress to heart failure, where the heart fails to maintain adequate circulation to meet the body's demands.

Heart failure can lead to a range of symptoms including shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid accumulation, emphasizing the critical nature of managing blood pressure to prevent such complications. The recognition of heart failure as a common consequence of prolonged hypertension highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of high blood pressure to preserve cardiovascular health and overall well-being.