High blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension, is a very common chronic medical condition. Seeking the right treatment for hypertension can prevent the development of future cardiovascular diseases. The cause of high blood pressure is dependent on the type you have. Primary Hypertension There is no known cause of primary high blood pressure. This type slowly develops over a long period of time with no pre-existing medical condition. Risk factors for developing this type of hypertension include obesity, poor lifestyle, obesity, and family history.   Secondary Hypertension Secondary hypertension is caused by an underlying medical condition such as a substance abuse disorder, blood vessel defects, medications, adrenal gland tumors, sleep apnea, kidney disease, and thyroid problems.   Additional factors that can lead to hypertension include genetics, age, high sodium diet, low potassium diet, tobacco use, lack of exercise, alcohol use, and a high-stress lifestyle.