MODERN THERAPY OF ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION

Abstract

Arterial hypertension is a persistent increase in resting systolic blood pressure (≥ 130 mm Hg) and/or diastolic blood pressure (≥ 80 mm Hg). An increase in blood pressure without a known cause (primary, essential hypertension) is the most common. Hypertension with an identified cause (secondary hypertension) is usually due to primary aldosteronism. Sleep apnea, chronic kidney disease, obesity, or renal artery stenosis are other causes of secondary hypertension. Usually, symptoms appear only with severe or prolonged course. Diagnosis is based on sphygmomanometry. Diagnosis can determine the cause, evaluate organ damage, and identify other cardiovascular risk factors. Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medications, including diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and calcium channel blockers.

Hypertension is defined as systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mmHg. or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 80 mmHg. or taking medications to treat high blood pressure. Nearly half of US adults have hypertension. Many of these people do not know that they have hypertension. Approximately 80% of adults with hypertension are recommended drug therapy and lifestyle changes, but only about 50% of patients with hypertension receive treatment.

Only about 1 in 5 adults with hypertension have their blood pressure (BP) under control. Even with medical treatment and lifestyle changes, only 26% of patients achieve blood pressure control, and among adults on antihypertensive therapy whose blood pressure is not controlled, almost 60% of blood pressure is ≥ 140/90 mmHg.