What is a possible outcome of long-term untreated hypertension regarding cerebrovascular health?

Long-term untreated hypertension significantly increases the risk of cerebrovascular accidents, more commonly known as strokes. Chronic high blood pressure can lead to damage of the blood vessels in the brain, making them more susceptible to rupturing (hemorrhagic stroke) or becoming blocked (ischemic stroke). This damage occurs because the increased pressure causes the arterial walls to thicken and harden, which narrows the arteries and affects blood flow.

Additionally, hypertension can lead to other complications, such as the formation of blood clots and an increase in plaque buildup in the arteries, further elevating the risk of stroke. Recognizing the dangers of untreated hypertension is critical, as managing blood pressure is essential to maintaining cerebral health and preventing serious outcomes like a stroke.

The other choices, while potentially related to health, do not logically align with the consequences of untreated hypertension. For instance, increased lung capacity and enhanced neurological function do not stem from hypertension, and the risk of stroke is markedly increased rather than decreased.