A 65-year-old male presents for a routine checkup. A blood pressure check reveals a systolic pressure of 160 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure of 70 mm Hg. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this type of pressure elevation?
A) Vasospasm
B) Rigidity of the aorta
C) High sodium intake
D) Renal disease

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The given systolic blood pressure is elevated while the diastolic blood pressure is normal, indicating a stiffening of the arterial walls, particularly the aorta, which limits the ability of the arteries to expand and contract. This is a characteristic of arteriosclerosis or rigidity of the arterial walls, which commonly occurs with aging. Vasospasm, high sodium intake, and renal disease typically cause elevated diastolic blood pressure, while aortic rigidity typically causes elevated systolic blood pressure.

A 65-Year-Old Male Presents for a Routine Checkup