Essential hypertension is an increase in blood pressure whose cause is not known with certainty. Of all cases of hypertension, about 90% of them include essential hypertension. Essential hypertension is also known as primary hypertension. This condition is different from secondary hypertension, which occurs because of another health condition, such as kidney disorders or thyroid disease. Although the cause is unknown, there are several conditions that are known to increase a person's risk of experiencing essential hypertension, ranging from heredity to lifestyle. Risk factors for essential hypertension The following are some of the factors that can increase the risk of developing essential hypertension: 1. Family history of hypertension People who have a family with a history of hypertension are more prone to experience similar conditions. In addition, hypertension is also more common in men than women. 2. Excess body weight Being overweight can put extra strain on the he...