Which condition could lead to the development of congestive heart failure?

Chronic hypertension is a significant risk factor for the development of congestive heart failure due to its prolonged effects on the heart and vasculature. When the blood pressure remains elevated over time, the heart must work harder to pump blood against the increased resistance in the arteries. This sustained workload can lead to hypertrophy of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle—a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy.

As the heart continues to pump with increased effort, it may eventually reach a point where it can no longer maintain adequate output, leading to the development of heart failure. Additionally, chronic hypertension can cause structural and functional changes in the heart, contributing to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) or heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). These changes not only affect the heart but can also impact fluid balance in the body, leading to congestion and poor perfusion, hallmark signs of congestive heart failure.

While other conditions listed may also influence heart health, chronic hypertension's direct and enduring impact on heart structure and function is what makes it a primary and well-established cause of congestive heart failure.