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Isolated systolic hypertension in the elderly: pathophysiology and treatment
S Saltzberg1, J A Stroh, W H Frishman
1Department of Medicine, Peter Bent Brigham Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
Insights
Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is common in older adults and a cardiovascular risk. While treating ISH with antihypertensive drugs seems safe, its benefits for reducing illness and death require further study.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Geriatrics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is prevalent in the elderly.
- ISH is recognized as a significant risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and safety of treating elderly patients with ISH.
- To determine the impact of antihypertensive drug treatment on morbidity and mortality benefits in ISH patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical findings and treatment approaches for ISH.
- Analysis of safety profiles for various antihypertensive drug classes.
- Assessment of existing data on morbidity and mortality outcomes.
Main Results:
- Treatment of ISH in the elderly appears feasible and safe with current antihypertensive medications.
- Specific morbidity and mortality benefits associated with ISH treatment remain undetermined.
Conclusions:
- Antihypertensive drug therapy is a viable option for managing ISH in older individuals.
- Further research is necessary to establish definitive evidence for the reduction of cardiovascular events and mortality through ISH treatment.
Abstract:
Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is a common clinical finding in the elderly population and appears to be a risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. It appears feasible and safe to treat patients with various antihypertensive drugs; however, the morbidity and mortality benefits still need to be determined.