[Arterial hypertension in elderly patients]

The cardiovascular system changes in the elderly: reduced blood volume and cardiac output, diminished elastic properties of the arterial wall and increased peripheral resistance are to be expected. Arterial hypertension can be developed when these changing factors are not balanced, especially with the longer lasting of cardiovascular risk factors. Arterial hypertension can be found in nearly every second person older than 60 years living in industrial countries--it is common but nevertheless not normal in the elderly. Epidemiologic studies show the effectiveness of the antihypertensive drug therapy in the aged in diminishing cerebrovascular and coronary events and improving the quality of live. When elderly persons are treated with antihypertensive drugs, this therapy should be chosen in respect of target organ damage and accompanying health problems and with close monitoring of the antihypertensive response and tolerability.