[The submaximal ergometric load test in hypertensive patients during physical training and treatment with debrisoquin...

A standardized simple submaximal ergometric load test was used to investigate the effects of active physical training combined with physical-balneological therapy over a 4-week period in 68 hypertensive patients. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased slightly (6 and 4% respectively), without any further medication, although the resting heart rate remained virtually unchanged. The identical examination regimen was applied to 2 groups of hypertensive patients (total 61), who were additionally treated for 3 weeks with respective doses of 30 mg or 40 mg debrisoquin daily, as a hypotensive agent. This additional treatment caused an optimum reduction in blood pressure (14 to 17%) and a decrease in heart rate (8 to 15%) at rest and during exercise. In summary, the additional pharmacological supporting measure intensifies the beneficial effects of exercise treatment in reducing high blood pressure and moreover, in decreasing heart rate values at rest and during work performance. The same physical load is performed more economically under conditions of lowered myocardial effort and reduced oxygen demand.