Which cardiovascular disease is often referred to as "the silent killer"?

Hypertension is often referred to as "the silent killer" because it frequently presents without any obvious symptoms, allowing it to progress unnoticed over time. Many individuals are unaware they have high blood pressure, which is a significant risk factor for severe cardiovascular complications, including stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure. The insidious nature of hypertension means that it can lead to serious health issues before a person ever becomes aware that they are even affected by it.

In contrast, coronary artery disease may present with chest pain or other symptoms, making it somewhat less "silent." Aortic aneurysms can be asymptomatic until they are critically large or rupture, but they often do present with symptoms before causing acute problems. Congestive heart failure commonly manifests with symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and edema, which leads individuals to seek medical attention. Thus, the unique characteristic of hypertension being largely asymptomatic until severe complications arise solidifies its reputation as "the silent killer."