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Hypertension in the Elderly
Robert L. Bloomfield1, Serguei V. Novikov, Carlos M. Ferrario
1The Hypertension Center, Bowman Gray School of Medicine of Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC.
Insights
This review details high blood pressure in older adults, covering its causes, treatment trials, and management strategies. It emphasizes non-drug and drug therapies, including neurological factors and medication selection for elderly hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Elevated blood pressure is a significant health concern in the elderly population.
- Specific conditions like isolated systolic hypertension and pseudo-hypertension require distinct consideration.
- Understanding the pathophysiology is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of elevated blood pressure in the elderly.
- To discuss major treatment trials and management strategies.
- To explore neurologic aspects and medication choices for hypertension in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of pathophysiology and treatment.
- Analysis of key clinical trials in elderly hypertension.
- Discussion of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions.
Main Results:
- Isolated systolic hypertension and pseudo-hypertension are prevalent in the elderly.
- Both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments show efficacy.
- Neurologic factors play a role in hypertension management in this demographic.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of hypertension in the elderly requires a multifaceted approach.
- Consideration of neurologic aspects and specific medication choices is vital.
- Further research into tailored treatment strategies is warranted.
Abstract:
In this review article, the authors cover the pathophysiology of elevated blood pressure in the elderly. Isolated systolic hypertension and pseudo-hypertension are noted. Some of the large treatment trials are discussed. Nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic management are covered. Neurologic aspects of hypertension in this population are discussed in some detail. Additional considerations regarding medication choices in the last part are noted.