Which organs are particularly susceptible to damage from prolonged hypertension?

Prolonged hypertension can lead to significant damage in multiple organs due to the increased pressure exerted on blood vessels over time. The kidneys are particularly vulnerable because they are responsible for filtering blood and regulating fluid balance; high blood pressure can damage the delicate blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to conditions such as chronic kidney disease. The brain is also at risk, as hypertension can result in aneurysms, stroke, and cognitive impairments due to reduced blood flow or hemorrhaging. Although the stomach and gastrointestinal tract can experience issues related to hypertension, such as increased risk of ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, they are less directly affected compared to the kidneys and brain. Therefore, recognizing that all these organs can suffer from the effects of high blood pressure reinforces the importance of managing hypertension to prevent systemic damage.