What is a potential complication of unmanaged hypertension?

The potential complication of unmanaged hypertension is heart failure. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, puts increased strain on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this pressure can lead to the thickening of the heart muscle (left ventricular hypertrophy), which impairs the heart's ability to pump effectively. This can ultimately result in heart failure, a condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's demands, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention.

In addition, unmanaged hypertension can lead to other serious complications, including stroke and kidney damage, but heart failure is a direct consequence of the chronic strain high blood pressure places on the cardiovascular system. The importance of managing hypertension cannot be overstated, as early intervention can help prevent these serious outcomes.

Improved circulation is not a consequence of unmanaged hypertension; rather, effective management of blood pressure can indeed enhance circulation. Kidney stones are not a direct complication of hypertension, although they can be associated with other metabolic disorders. Restless leg syndrome, while it may coexist with conditions related to hypertension, is not a recognized complication of unmanaged high blood pressure.