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Hypertension in special populations: athletes
Rosa Maria Bruno1, Giulia Cartoni, Stefano Taddei
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 67, 56123 Pisa, Italy.
Future Cardiology
|July 30, 2011
Summary
Hypertension is common in athletes, despite exercise lowering blood pressure. This review covers diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment considerations for physicians managing hypertension in physically active individuals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Physical exercise typically lowers blood pressure and cardiovascular risk.
- Hypertension remains the most prevalent cardiovascular disease in athletes and physically active populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current approaches for diagnosing and managing hypertension in athletes.
- To highlight special considerations for physicians in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on hypertension in athletes.
- Focus on diagnostic screening, risk assessment, and treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- Physicians must consider secondary causes of hypertension in athletes.
- Comprehensive assessment of global cardiovascular risk and target organ damage is crucial.
- Treatment choices require specific adaptations for athletic individuals.
Conclusions:
- Managing hypertension in athletes requires a tailored approach.
- Integrating exercise science with cardiovascular disease management is essential for optimal patient outcomes.
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