ABSTRACT
This chapter presents definition and properties of hypertension, and examines the endocrine-related conditions associated with hypertension. It shows how the hormones may be implicated in endocrine hypertension. Hypertension usually due to inappropriate endocrine hormone release into the bloodstream. Diastolic blood pressure is a more reliable indicator of chronic hypertension. In Cushing's disease with glucocorticoid excess, excess circulating cortisol promotes excessive angiotensinogen production in the liver and over-activity of angiotensin II, resulting in excessive Na+ retention and hypertension. Phaeochromocytoma is a catecholamine-producing tumour in the adrenal medulla or ectopically in the body. Symptoms during an attack reflect over-activity of epinephrine and include sweating, racing heart, tremor, headache, anxiety, dyspnoea and pallor. Hyperthyroidism causes hypertension through effects on the heart and through a lowering of the total peripheral resistance.
