Hypertension in elders. Clinical diagnosis and treatment considerations

Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) accounts for more than 50% of all hypertension in persons over age 65 and is linked to increased morbidity and mortality. The various antihypertensive medications have been shown to be effective in reducing ISH. However, the efficacy of such treatment in reducing morbidity and mortality has been demonstrated in only one study to date and only on a selected population. The care provider for an elderly person with ISH must therefore weigh the risks of ISH against the risks of treatment of side effects and quality of life. Ultimately, the treatment of ISH in those over age 65 must be carefully planned on an individual basis.