Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most prevalent medical conditions worldwide and a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Ultrasound is used extensively to evaluate the consequences of hypertension on target organs. Echocardiography assesses for left ventricular hypertrophy, diastolic dysfunction, and enlarged left atrium, all of which result from the heart working against chronically elevated pressure. Carotid ultrasound evaluates for atherosclerotic plaque and intima-media thickening. Renal Doppler assesses for renal artery stenosis, which can be both a cause and consequence of hypertension. These ultrasound evaluations help determine the severity of organ damage.
Sonography Term