Hypertension is a chronic condition characterized by high blood pressure, the force of blood against artery walls being consistently too high. Its purpose as a leading risk factor for stroke stems from its ability to damage blood vessels, leading to conditions such as atherosclerosis and increasing the likelihood of blood clots. Long-term hypertension can result in the hardening and narrowing of arteries, making it difficult for blood to flow freely, which can lead to both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. The body responds to hypertension by attempting to compensate through various mechanisms, such as increasing heart rate and altering blood vessel elasticity. Over time, however, these compensatory mechanisms can become overwhelmed, leading to chronic damage and an increased risk of stroke.