Endocrine Hypertension: A Primer for Primary Care Nurse Practitioners

Abstract

Endocrine hypertension is a subtype of a secondary hypertension that occurs due to the excessive production of hormones that elevate blood pressure. Endocrine hypertension is more common than previously thought, and it carries significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis and treatment may result in better blood pressure control and often in complete cure of hypertension. Multidisciplinary collaboration and patient engagement are necessary to achieve optimal outcomes. The purpose of this review is to summarize the evidence on the hormonal causes of hypertension and to outline the role of primary care nurse practitioners in their diagnosis and management.