From hypertension to heart failure

Abstract Although different conditions and diseases may lead to the development of heart failure, arterial hypertension due to its high prevalence represents a major risk factor. Through several mechanisms, including endothelial dysfunction, accelerated atherosclerosis, and left ventricular hypertrophy, a patient with hypertension may go on to develop heart failure, with devastating effects in terms of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This chapter reviews the cardiovascular continuum that leads a patient with hypertension to progress to heart failure, as well as practical issues related to the therapeutic approach and management.