hypertension is characterized by

Options

A. increase in systolic pressure beyond 80 mm Hg
B. increase in diastolic pressure beyond 120 mm Hg
C. increase in both systole and diastole pressure beyond 120 and 80 mm Hg respectively
D. decrease in both systole and diastole pressures below 80 and 120 mm Hg respectively

Answer

To solve the question regarding the characteristics of hypertension, we will analyze each option provided and determine which one accurately defines hypertension.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Blood Pressure Measurements**:
- Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure (the higher number) and diastolic pressure (the lower number).
- Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg, where 120 mmHg is the systolic pressure and 80 mmHg is the diastolic pressure.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A**: "Increase in systolic pressure beyond 80 mmHg"
- This option is incorrect because the systolic pressure is normally higher than 80 mmHg. Hypertension is not defined by just exceeding 80 mmHg.

- **Option B**: "Increase in diastolic pressure beyond 120 mmHg"
- This option is also incorrect. Diastolic pressure is normally around 80 mmHg, and hypertension is not defined by exceeding 120 mmHg in diastolic pressure.

- **Option C**: "Increase in both systolic and diastolic pressure beyond 120 mmHg and 80 mmHg respectively"
- This option is correct. Hypertension is characterized by elevated blood pressure readings, specifically when the systolic pressure exceeds 120 mmHg and the diastolic pressure exceeds 80 mmHg.

- **Option D**: "Increase in both systolic and diastolic pressure below 80 and 120 mmHg respectively"
- This option is incorrect. Hypertension cannot be defined by pressures below the normal range.

3. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **Option C**: "Increase in both systolic and diastolic pressure beyond 120 mmHg and 80 mmHg respectively".