Articles related to BLOOD PRESSURE

This pooled analysis provides robust evidence that low-dose glucocorticoids in RA treatment result in modest weight gain but do not elevate blood pressure. Consider these findings in your risk-benefit discussions with patients.

Diving into intensive systolic BP treatment unveils intriguing cognitive benefits according to a secondary analysis of the SPRINT trial. The SPRINT trial has shed fresh light on the impact of intensive systolic blood pressure (SBP) treatment on cognitive health. Out of 7,918 participants, a significant majority with higher baseline risk of dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) revealed marked cognitive improvements with intensive SBP treatment. This marks a leap forward in understanding SBP treatment’s role in cognitive function preservation. In the comprehensive secondary analysis, patients were meticulously followed up over a median of four years. To streamline the study, two SBP treatment targets were identified: intensive, set at less than 120 mm Hg, and standard, at less than 140 mm Hg. The data collected showcased 765 and 828 primary outcome events in intensive and standard treatment groups, respectively. Consequently, it confirmed intensive SBP treatment’s potential in reducing the risk of MCI or dementia. Digging deeper into the data, certain trends emerged. Older age, Medicare enrollment, and higher baseline serum creatinine levels correlated with a higher risk of the primary outcome. Conversely, enhanced baseline cognitive functioning and active employment status signified lower risk. Interestingly, higher baseline risk connected directly with greater […]

There haven’t been any national guidelines developed for managing patients with stage 1 hypertension who don’t respond to lifestyle modification. This population represents an important guideline gap: most patients with stage 1 hypertension progress to stage 2 hypertension, which increases the risk for cardiovascular events. The AHA has published a scientific statement to fill the gap – if lifestyle modification fails to reduce blood pressure, consider pharmacotherapy.

Can you determine the appropriate case management for a 68-year-old man who is evaluated for an episode of syncope and repeated episodes of near-fainting when standing and working on his tractor? On physical examination, vital signs are normal. Supine blood pressure is 124/78 mm Hg, and pulse rate is 76/min. After the patient stands for three minutes, standing blood pressure is 88/68 mm Hg, and pulse rate is 94/min. The remainder of the examination is normal. How would you proceed?

A study published in the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine puts forward a new and systematic approach to diagnosing and managing orthostatic hypotension. The article notes that current approaches to evaluating and managing the disease are based on limited data, but that patients would benefit from more consistent diagnosis and treatment methods.

The DASH diet is not a new fad or trend in wellness; it’s a lifelong approach to healthy eating, developed to lower blood pressure without medication. DASH – Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension – is all about limiting sodium in your diet while encouraging the intake of potassium, calcium, and magnesium – nutrients that help lower blood pressure. A valuable resource to share with your patients!