n 1  :  abnormally high arterial blood pressure  a  :  such blood pressure occurring without apparent or determinable prior organic changes in the tissues possibly because of hereditary tendency, emotional tensions, faulty nutrition, or hormonal influence  b  :  such blood pressure with demonstrable organic changes (as in nephritis, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism)  2  :  a systemic condition resulting from hypertension that is either symptomless or is accompanied by nervousness, dizziness, or headache .
 
 
 
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