Physical exercise in hypertensive heart disease: From the differential diagnosis to the complementary role of
Maria Concetta Pastore1, Luna Cavigli1, Gabriele Olivoni1
1Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
Physical exercise is a key lifestyle modification for managing arterial hypertension (high blood pressure), aiding in prevention and treatment. Personalized exercise plans are crucial for both general patients and athletes with hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Hypertension Research
Background:
- Arterial hypertension (AH) is a prevalent condition and a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and mortality.
- Chronic AH leads to detrimental cardiac and arterial remodeling, necessitating early and effective management.
- Physical exercise offers therapeutic benefits for AH by influencing sympathetic tone, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and endothelial function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted relationship between hypertensive heart disease and physical exercise.
- To explore diagnostic tools, prevention, and treatment strategies for hypertension, emphasizing exercise's role.
- To address the specific challenges of managing hypertension in athletes, including risk stratification and differential diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing current evidence on physical exercise and arterial hypertension.
- Analysis of the physiological mechanisms through which exercise impacts blood pressure regulation.
- Examination of diagnostic criteria and clinical considerations for differentiating hypertensive heart disease from athlete's heart.
Main Results:
- International guidelines recommend exercise as a primary lifestyle intervention for hypertension.
- Exercise can augment the effects of antihypertensive medications, leading to further blood pressure reduction.
- Accurate risk stratification and tailored exercise prescriptions are vital for athletes with AH.
Conclusions:
- Personalized exercise prescription is essential for optimizing hypertension prevention and treatment.
- Careful evaluation is required for athletes with uncontrolled hypertension to ensure safe participation in sports.
- Distinguishing between hypertensive heart disease and athlete's heart demands comprehensive clinical interpretation.
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