Hypertension: A Comparative Review Based on Fractal Wave Theory of Continuum

Abstract

Hypertension is defined as the condition that the mean arterial pressure is greater than the upper range of accepted normality. It has a few sub-classifications including for instance, hypertension stage I, hypertension stage II, isolated systolic or diastolic hypertension. The isolated systolic hypertension, for instance, refers to elevated systolic pressure only. In this article, we will first review the current knowledge on the etiology of hypertension. Then, diagnostic methods of hypertension will be reviewed. Finally, the methods of treatment will be discussed. Throughout this paper, we will compare the differences between the approaches of orthodox western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine. In particular, the mechanism of acupuncture and its fractal wave theory of continuum will be invoked to elucidate how and why acupuncture can help improve the overall blood circulation and distribution. It is hoped that this review can improve our understanding of hypertension and help us make accurate judgments on the treatments from two different schools of thought.