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High blood pressure - InDepth

An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of high blood pressure.

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Highlights

Blood Pressure Measurements

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). The higher number is the systolic blood pressure, the pressure in your arteries while your heart is pumping blood. The lower number is the diastolic blood pressure, the pressure when your heart is relaxing and refilling with blood between beats. For adults:

• Normal blood pressure readings are below 120/80 mm Hg.
• High blood pressure (hypertension) was until recently considered to be a blood pressure reading greater than or equal to 140 mm Hg (systolic) or greater than or equal to 90 mm Hg (diastolic).
• New clinical guidelines define hypertension as pressure greater than 130 mmHg (systolic) or greater than 80 mmHg (diastolic).
• Systolic pressure between 120 and 130 mmHg with diastolic pressure lower than 80 mmHg is now defined as elevated blood pressure.
• A blood pressure reading below 130/80 mm Hg should be the minimum goal for most people. People with certain health conditions (diabetes) may benefit from a lower target goal.
• For elderly people, the risks of medication side effects need to be weighed against the benefits of achieving ideal blood pressure goals.
• Goals for various populations (especially those with other health conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease) are constantly being revised as new information about risk is gained from research studies. Your provider can help give you the most appropriate goal.

Home Blood Pressure Monitoring

Most people with high blood pressure can benefit from monitoring their blood pressure at home on a regular basis. Home monitoring can help show if blood pressure medications are working or if they need to be adjusted.

Lifestyle Changes and High Blood Pressure

Lifestyle changes are important for preventing and treating high blood pressure. They include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol consumption to no more than one or two drinks a day
• Reducing sodium (salt) intake in your diet

The DASH diet is a plan proven to improve blood pressure.

Medications for High Blood Pressure

Drug treatment for high blood pressure is tailored to the individual. There are many different types of blood pressure medications. Although some people need only one drug to control blood pressure, many people require at least two medications.

Blood pressure measurements can fluctuate throughout the day and in different environments. The decision to start or increase blood pressure medications should not be based on a single blood pressure reading.

To obtain the most accurate estimate of your true blood pressure, your doctor will use an average of multiple readings. These may include repeated readings made in the doctor's office as well as blood pressure measurements you performed at home.

Introduction

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is elevated pressure of the blood in the arteries. Hypertension results from two major factors that can occur independently or together:

• The heart pumps more blood faster or with excessive force.
• The body's smaller blood vessels (known as the arterioles) narrow or contract so that blood flow exerts more pressure against the vessels' walls.

Blood pressure is the force applied against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood through the body. The pressure is determined by the force and amount of blood pumped and the size and flexibility of the arteries.

High blood pressure makes the body's heart work harder, which over time can lead to damage to blood vessels throughout the body and to the heart itself. Damaged blood vessels affect function in the heart, kidneys, brain, and eyes.

Two numbers are used to describe a blood pressure reading:

• Systolic blood pressure (the first and higher number) is the force that blood exerts on the artery walls as the heart contracts to pump out the blood. It shows the pressure in the arteries when the heart is beating.
• Diastolic blood pressure (the second and lower number) is the measurement of force as the heart relaxes to allow the blood to flow into the heart. It shows the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between heartbeats.

A third number, pulse pressure, is the difference between the systolic and the diastolic readings. It reflects stiffness and inflammation in blood vessel walls (or sometimes a heart valve problem). The greater the difference between systolic and diastolic numbers, the greater the risk to health.

Hypertension Categories

There are a number of ways to categorize or describe hypertension.

• Primary hypertension, also called essential or idiopathic hypertension, is high blood pressure without a known cause. About 90% of all high blood pressure cases are this type.
• Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney or endocrine disorders. It accounts for about 5% to 10% of high blood pressure cases.

Doctors may also categorize hypertension based on what portion of the blood pressure reading is abnormal:

• Isolated systolic hypertension occurs when systolic pressure is high (over 130 mmHg) but diastolic pressure is normal (under 80 mmHg). It is related to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Isolated systolic hypertension is the most common form of hypertension in people older than age 50.




Click the icon to see an image of how atherosclerosis develops.

• Diastolic hypertension refers to an elevated diastolic blood pressure reading (over 80 mmHg). This subtype is most common in people age 30 to 50.

Blood Pressure Guidelines

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Blood pressure is categorized as:

• Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg.
• Elevated blood pressure (120 to 129 systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic) indicates an increased risk for developing high blood pressure.
• High blood pressure (hypertension) is greater than or equal to 130 mmHg (systolic) or greater than or equal to 80 mmHg (diastolic). Hypertension is further divided into stages 1 and 2 depending on severity.

Blood Pressure Ranges
Blood Pressure Category	Ranges for Most Adults (systolic/diastolic)
Normal blood pressure (systolic/diastolic)	Systolic below 120 mmHg Diastolic below 80 mmHg
Elevated blood pressure	Systolic 120 to 129 mmHg Diastolic below 80 mmHg (NOTE: Below 130/80 should be the general goal for most people. African Americans or people with certain types of heart disease or chronic kidney disease may benefit from lower target goals. The American Diabetes Association recommends a blood pressure goal of less than 140/80 for people who have diabetes and hypertension; a lower systolic target of 130 mmHg may be appropriate for younger patients.)
Stage 1 hypertension	Systolic 130 to 139 mmHg or Diastolic 80 to 89 mmHg
Stage 2 hypertension	Systolic over 140 mmHg or Diastolic over 90 mmHg

Blood Pressure in Children

For children younger than 13, blood pressure readings are based on percentile ranges for a child's age and height. Hypertension in children is defined as average systolic and diastolic readings that are greater than the 95th percentile for sex, age, and height on at least three occasions. After the age of 13, adolescents are considered hypertensive if their blood pressure is greater than 130/80 mmHg.

Elevated blood pressure (previously called prehypertension) in children younger than 13 is diagnosed when average systolic or diastolic blood pressure levels are at least in the 90th percentile, but less than the 95th percentile. For adolescents, as with adults, blood pressure readings greater than 120/80 but below 130/80 are considered elevated.

Increasing rates of childhood obesity have led to higher rates of hypertension and prehypertension among children and adolescents. However, according to the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), it is not clear if blood pressure screening is helpful for children who DO NOT show signs or symptoms of hypertension. It is also not certain if screening accurately identifies children at risk for heart disease. The USPSTF recommends pediatricians make a decision to evaluate blood pressure based on specific clinical situations (for example, when a child is overweight). The American Association of Pediatrics recommends routine blood pressure measurements only at annual preventative care visits.

Causes

Causes of Primary Hypertension

Hypertension is referred to as primary ( or "essential") when the doctor is unable to identify a specific cause. It is by far the most common type of high blood pressure. Primary hypertension may be due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and other factors. These factors influence the function of several complex systems that control blood pressure, the most important of which are the kidneys, the blood vessels, the nervous system, and hormones.

Genetic factors

A number of genetic factors or interactions between genes play a major role in primary hypertension. Genes under investigation include:

• Genes that regulate a group of hormones known collectively as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. This system influences most aspects of blood pressure control, including blood vessel contraction, sodium and water balance, and cell development in the heart.
• Genes that cause abnormalities of the sympathetic nervous system. This is the part of the autonomic nervous system that controls heart rate, heart contraction force, and the diameter of the blood vessels.

Causes of Secondary Hypertension

Secondary hypertension is caused by an underlying medical condition or other factors (such as medications) that elevates blood pressure. Many different medical conditions are associated with secondary hypertension. These conditions can also make high blood pressure more difficult to control.

Diabetes

Hypertension is strongly associated with diabetes, both types 1 and 2. Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy) is generally the cause of high blood pressure in people with diabetes.

Kidney disease

Kidney disease is the most common cause of secondary hypertension, particularly in older people. In addition to diabetic nephropathy, many other types of kidney diseases can cause hypertension. Renal artery stenosis involves the narrowing of the renal artery and is usually caused by atherosclerosis. Other types of kidney disease associated with hypertension are polycystic kidney disease and renal parenchymal disease (abnormalities of the kidney tissue itself).

Coarctation of the aorta

This is a birth defect that causes narrowing of the aorta, the main artery leading out of the heart that brings blood to the rest of the body. This can be a cause of hypertension in younger people and is sometimes associated with other abnormalities.

Endocrine disorders

Adrenal tumors (pheochromocytoma, aldosteronism), thyroid disorders, and Cushing syndrome can all cause secondary hypertension.

Drugs

Many different prescription and over-the-counter drugs can temporarily raise blood pressure or worsen existing high blood pressure, including:

• Corticosteroids when given by mouth or intravenously.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, generic), naproxen (Aleve, generic), and aspirin.
• Cold medicine decongestants containing pseudoephedrine can increase blood pressure in people with high blood pressure, although they appear to pose no danger for those with normal blood pressure.
• Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) increase the risk for high blood pressure, particularly in women who are older than 35 years, obese, smokers, have strong family history of hypertension, or some combination of these factors. Stopping the pill nearly always reduces blood pressure.

In addition to medications, recreational or illegal drugs (such as cocaine or amphetamines) can also increase blood pressure temporarily and may stiffen blood vessels and contribute to chronic high blood pressure. A few supplements and herbs may also increase blood pressure, including any containing licorice, ephedra, caffeine, guarana, or ginseng.

Risk Factors

In the United States, nearly half of all adults have high blood pressure. Many people with high blood pressure don't know they have it. People with elevated blood pressure (120 to 129/80 mmHg) are at higher risk of developing high blood pressure.

Age and Sex

Age is the major risk factor of hypertension. Men over age 45 and women over age 55 are at increased risk for high blood pressure. Over half of Americans over age 60 have hypertension. After age 65, high blood pressure affects more women than men. Hypertension is also becoming more common in children and teenagers. Among younger people, boys are at higher risk for high blood pressure than girls.

Race and Ethnicity

Compared to Caucasians and other ethnic groups, African Americans are more likely to have high blood pressure. More than 40% of African American men and women have hypertension. (African American women have a higher risk than African American men.) High blood pressure tends to start at a younger age among African Americans, is often more severe, and causes greater risks for premature death from heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and kidney failure.

Family History

People with parents or other close relatives who have high blood pressure have an increased risk of developing it themselves.

Obesity

About a third of people with high blood pressure are overweight. Even moderately obese adults have double the risk of hypertension than people with normal weights. Children and adolescents who are obese are at increased risk for high blood pressure when they reach adulthood.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea, a disorder in which breathing halts briefly but repeatedly during sleep, is present in many people with hypertension. The relationship between sleep apnea and hypertension has been thought to be largely due to obesity. But studies are finding a higher rate of hypertension in people with sleep apnea regardless of their weight.

Lifestyle Factors

Smoking

Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for high blood pressure.

Sodium (salt) and potassium

Eating too much sodium (salt) can increase the risk for developing high blood pressure. Similarly, a diet that is too low in potassium has been associated with high blood pressure, which may cause the body to accumulate too much sodium. Low blood potassium and hypertension may be related to another medical condition. Sodium and potassium are important regulators of fluid balance in cells.

Alcohol and drugs

Chronic heavy alcohol use can increase blood pressure. Women may be more sensitive than men to the blood pressure effects of alcohol. Recreational or illegal drugs including cocaine and amphetamines can also increase blood pressure momentarily or worsen existing hypertension.

Physical inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity can increase the risk of becoming overweight.

Stress

Mental and emotional stress can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure. Chronic stress can lead to engaging in unhealthy behaviors (overeating, smoking, alcohol use, lack of exercise) that contribute to high blood pressure.

Complications

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a disorder characterized by chronically high blood pressure. It must be monitored, treated, and controlled by medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of both.

High blood pressure places stress on blood vessels that feed several organs (called target organs), including the kidneys, eyes, and heart. The stress causes these organs to deteriorate over time.

High blood pressure contributes to 75% of all strokes and heart attacks. It is particularly deadly in African Americans.

Combined with significantly high blood pressure, other risk factors can increase the likelihood of complications. These risk factors include:

• Increasing age
• Smoking
• Abnormal cholesterol levels
• Family history of premature heart disease
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Coronary artery disease (CAD), or other evidence of vascular disease



Heart Complications

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for hypertensive heart disease, the leading cause of illness and death from high blood pressure. Hypertension can cause different types of heart disease including:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD), sometimes called Coronary Heart Disease. High blood pressure contributes to the thickening of the blood vessel walls and worsens atherosclerosis (accumulated deposits of cholesterol in the blood vessels). The end result is called CAD, also called ischemic heart disease. The presence of CAD increases the risk for angina (chest pain), heart attack, stroke, and death. High blood pressure is the most common risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
• Heart failure. High blood pressure increases the heart's workload. Over time, this can cause the heart muscle to thicken (cardiac hypertrophy), which makes it more difficult for the heart to fill with and then pump out sufficient blood. This process can eventually lead to heart failure.




Click the icon to see an image of hypertension.

• Cardiac arrhythmias. High blood pressure increases the risk for cardiac arrhythmias (disturbances and irregularities in heartbeats). Arrhythmias include atrial fibrillation, premature ventricular contractions, and ventricular tachycardia.

Stroke

About two-thirds of people who suffer a first stroke have moderately elevated blood pressure (160/95 mmHg or above). Hypertensive people have up to 10 times the normal risk of stroke, depending on the severity of the blood pressure in the presence of other risk factors. Hypertension is also an important cause of silent cerebral infarcts, which are blockages in the blood vessels in the brain (mini-strokes) that may predict major stroke or progress to dementia over time.

Diabetes and Kidney Disease

Diabetes

High blood pressure, and some of the medications used to treat it, can increase the risk for developing type 2 diabetes. There are strong biologic links between insulin resistance (with or without diabetes) and hypertension. It is unclear if one condition causes the other.

The USPSTF recommends screening for type 2 diabetes in all people with blood pressure higher than 135/80 mmHg.

End-stage kidney disease

High blood pressure causes about 30% of all cases of end-stage kidney disease (referred to as end-stage renal disease, or ESRD). Only diabetes leads to more cases of kidney failure than hypertension. People with diabetes and hypertension need to be monitored very closely for the development of kidney disease.

Dementia

Isolated systolic hypertension may pose a particular risk for dementia, or memory loss.

Eye Damage

High blood pressure can injure the blood vessels in the eye's retina, causing a condition called hypertensive retinopathy.




Click the icon to see an image of hypertensive retinopathy.

Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual (erectile) dysfunction is more common and more severe in smokers and people with hypertension than it is in the general population. Although older drugs used to treat hypertension can be associated with sexual dysfunction as a side effect, the disease process that causes hypertension is itself a major cause of sexual dysfunction.

Oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors -- such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra) -- DO NOT appear to pose a risk for most men who have both high blood pressure and erectile dysfunction. But men who have uncontrolled or unstable hypertension should not take these medications.

Men who take nitrate medications (commonly given for heart disease) cannot take erectile dysfunction pills because together they can lead to life-threatening low blood pressure.

Pregnancy and High Blood Pressure

Many women who are likely to develop hypertension when they are older have their first elevated blood pressure readings during pregnancy. Elevated blood pressure readings generally show up early in pregnancy, before 16 to 20 weeks, but can first appear at any time during the pregnancy and for up to 6 weeks after delivery. These women often require antihypertensive medications during pregnancy and closer monitoring of themselves and the fetus. Continued hypertension after the pregnancy is also not uncommon, and women who had preeclampsia are at higher risk of developing hypertension later on. Preeclampsia is further discussed below.

Severe and sudden high blood pressure in pregnant women is one component of a condition called preeclampsia (also called toxemia) that can be very serious for both mother and child. Preeclampsia occurs in up to 10% of all pregnancies, usually in the third trimester of a first pregnancy, and usually resolves immediately after delivery. Other symptoms and signs of preeclampsia include protein in the urine, severe headaches, and swollen ankles.

The reduced supply of blood to the placenta can cause low birth weight and eye or brain damage in the fetus. Severe cases of preeclampsia can cause kidney damage, convulsions (seizures), and coma in the mother and can be lethal to both mother and child. A variant of preeclampsia called HELLP syndrome is a particularly severe complication characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and a low platelet count. HELLP syndrome is a life-threatening condition that usually requires immediate delivery. Women at risk for preeclampsia (particularly those with existing hypertension) are monitored carefully for its presence. Both mother and fetus are monitored closely after a diagnosis. Blood pressure medications may be required.

Delivery of the placenta is the main solution for preeclampsia. In severe cases, an obstetrician may need to induce pre-term birth. Delivery does not guarantee that blood pressure will return to normal in all women with preeclampsia and complications can still occur after delivery. In some cases, preeclampsia can even occur for the first time after delivery. All women should be aware of and report symptoms such as severe headache, visual problems, or pain in the upper middle abdomen.

Symptoms

High blood pressure increases slowly over the years. It is often called the "silent killer" because it usually produces no symptoms until vital organs are damaged, like the heart, brain, and kidneys.

Everyone, 18 years and older, should have their blood pressure measured on a regular basis. It is particularly important for anyone with risk factors to have their blood pressure checked regularly and to make appropriate lifestyle changes. Such recommendations are especially important for people who:

• Have prehypertension or hypertension
• Have a family history of hypertension
• Are overweight
• Are over age 40

Symptoms of Malignant Hypertension

Malignant hypertension is very high blood pressure that comes on suddenly and quickly. The lower (diastolic) blood pressure reading, which is normally around 80 mmHg, is often above 130 mmHg. This rare disorder affects about 1% of people with high blood pressure, including both children and adults. It is more common in younger adults, especially African American men.

Malignant hypertension is a life-threatening condition and must be treated immediately. People with uncontrolled hypertension or a history of heart failure are at increased risk for this crisis.

People should call a doctor immediately if these symptoms occur:

• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Headache
• Nausea
• Loss of vision
• Difficulty breathing

Diagnosis

Most physical exams at the doctor's office include a blood pressure reading. People should not smoke, exercise, or drink caffeinated beverages within 30 minutes before their blood pressure measurement.

Measuring Blood Pressure

Diagnosing high blood pressure early can help prevent heart disease, stroke, eye problems, and chronic kidney disease.

All adults (aged 18 years and older) should have their blood pressure checked:

• Once a year for adults aged 40 years and older.
• Once a year for people at increased risk for high blood pressure.
• Every 3 to 5 years, adults aged 18 to 39 years with blood pressure less than 120/80 who DO NOT have other risk factors.

The standard instrument used to measure blood pressure is called a sphygmomanometer, more often referred to as a blood pressure cuff. Measurements are given as units of mercury, which was used to fill the central column in standard sphygmomanometers for many years. Modern devices DO NOT use mercury.

• While seated with your back supported, and your feet flat on the floor after sitting quietly for several minutes, an inflatable cuff with a meter attached is placed around your upper arm, over the artery. The arm being used for measurement is at the level of your heart. The inflated cuff briefly interrupts the flow of blood in your artery, which then resumes as the cuff is slowly deflated.
• As the cuff is slowly deflated, the person taking your blood pressure listens to the blood pumping through the artery with a stethoscope.
• The first pumping sound is recorded as the systolic pressure, and the last sound is the diastolic pressure.
• If a first blood pressure reading is above normal, the health professional may take two or more measurements separated by 2 minutes with you sitting or lying down. Another measurement may be taken after you have been standing for 2 minutes. If the measurements are still elevated, your health care provider should take blood pressure readings from both arms.

Decisions on starting or increasing medications should be based on multiple blood pressure readings, taken at both the doctor's office and even at home.



Although this test has been used for more than 90 years, it is not completely accurate or sensitive. The following factors can cause a falsely low pressure reading:

• An arm cuff that is too large
• Dehydration

Falsely high pressure readings can result from:

• An arm cuff that is too small
• Stress
• Recently consuming foods or beverages (such as coffee) that raise blood pressure
• Recent tobacco exposure
• Recent exercise

Blood pressure readings taken by a doctor are more likely to be higher than readings measured at home. This can be due to "white coat hypertension," which is blood pressure that is only elevated during a doctor's office visit. People with white coat hypertension have:

• High readings in the doctor's office
• Daytime blood pressure readings away from the doctor's office of less than 135/85 mmHg
• No evidence of complications of blood pressure elsewhere in the body

These people may require additional blood pressure monitoring. White coat hypertension may be associated with a higher cardiovascular disease risk.

Ambulatory Monitoring

Doctors may ask some people to use a special ambulatory monitoring device for a 24-hour period. The device checks blood pressure about every 15 to 30 minutes during the day and night and provides a read-out of blood pressure measurements for the doctor. Ambulatory monitoring may be used for people who have borderline high blood pressure or for those who have had difficulty keeping their blood pressure under control. It can also help distinguish between true and white coat hypertension and it can detect masked hypertension (readings that are normal in a doctor's office but high during daily life). Ambulatory monitoring can also be helpful for diagnosing children with suspected high blood pressure.

Home Monitoring

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that all people with high blood pressure monitor their blood pressure at home on a regular basis. In addition to other benefits, home monitoring can help show if blood pressure medications are working.

The AHA recommends:

• Purchase a blood pressure monitor with a cuff that fits on the upper arm. Wrist monitors are not recommended. Make sure that the cuff is the right size. One size does not fit all.
• Ask your doctor to show you the proper way to use the monitor. Your arm should be supported with your upper arm at heart level, your feet on the floor, back supported, and legs uncrossed, after sitting quietly for several minutes.
• Don't drink caffeinated beverages, exercise, or smoke within 30 minutes before measuring your blood pressure.
• Check your blood pressure at the same time each day. Take two or three readings, 1 minute apart, while sitting still. Your doctor may suggest a specific time of day you should take your readings.
• Keep a record of your readings including the date, time, and systolic and diastolic measurements. (Some monitors have built-in memories to record readings.) When you visit your doctor, take the record or monitor with you.
• If you get consistent high readings at home, contact your doctor. Your medication may need to be readjusted. If you get a systolic reading (top number) of 180 or higher, or a diastolic reading (bottom number) of 110 or higher, you may need emergency treatment, especially if you have symptoms such as headache, chest pain or vision changes. (Ask your doctor what you should do if this situation occurs.)

Blood pressure variations at home

In general, everyone's blood pressure varies throughout the day. In monitoring at home, it is important to note that blood pressure is usually highest from morning to mid-afternoon. Upon waking, blood pressure in most people typically increases suddenly. Early morning is the highest risk period for heart attack and stroke.




Click the icon to see an image of a stroke.




Click the icon to see an image of a heart attack.

Blood pressure normally dips to its lowest level during sleep, although some people (particularly postmenopausal women) have a condition called non-dipper hypertension, in which blood pressure does not fall at night.

Physical Examination for Complications of Hypertension

If your blood pressure is elevated, the doctor will:

• Check your pulse rate
• Examine the back of your eyes
• Examine your neck for distended veins or an enlarged thyroid gland
• Check your heart for enlargement and murmurs
• Examine your abdomen
• Check your leg pulses




Click the icon to see an image of the thyroid gland.

Medical History

If hypertension is suspected, your doctor may ask about:

• Your family and personal medical history, especially relating to high blood pressure, stroke, heart problems, kidney disease, or diabetes.
• Risk factors for heart disease and stroke, including tobacco use, salt intake, obesity, physical inactivity, and unhealthy cholesterol levels.
• Any medications you are taking.
• Any symptom that might indicate secondary hypertension (high blood pressure caused by another disorder). Such symptoms include headache, heart palpitations, excessive sweating, muscle cramps or weakness, or excessive urination.
• Any emotional or environmental factors that could affect blood pressure.

Laboratory and Other Tests

If a physical examination indicates hypertension, additional tests may help determine whether organ damage is present.

Blood tests and urinalysis

These tests are performed to check for a number of factors, including:

• Electrolytes and potassium levels
• Cholesterol and other lipids
• Blood sugar (to screen for diabetes)
• Liver function
• Kidney function
• Thyroid function
• Infection

Measuring blood levels of the protein creatinine, for example, is important for all hypertensive people in order to determine kidney damage.

Tests to evaluate the heart

These tests include:

• An electrocardiogram (ECG) in the doctor's office.
• An exercise stress test for people who also have symptoms of CAD.
• An echocardiogram, when it would help the doctor decide whether to start treatment. Most of the time this test is not necessary for people who have only hypertension and no other symptoms.




Click the icon to see an image of an ECG.




Click the icon to see an image about the functions of the kidney.

Tests to evaluate the kidneys

These tests include:

• A Doppler or duplex test to see whether one of the arteries supplying blood to the kidney is narrowed, a condition called renal artery stenosis.
• An ultrasound to examine the kidneys.

Treatment

General treatment goals for hypertension aim to reduce blood pressure to below 130/80. Specific blood pressure goals may differ depending on a person's individual health profile and risk factors.

Lifestyle changes are the first step for reducing blood pressure and are an essential accompaniment to drug treatment. Lifestyle changes may be the only intervention necessary for elevated blood pressure (systolic blood pressure 120 to 129 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure less than 80 mmHg).

Drug treatment for blood pressure control must be individualized. The doctor needs to consider a patient's risk factors, such as age, diabetes, or other heart disease conditions.

In some people, a single-drug regimen can control Stage 1 hypertension (systolic 130 to 139 or diastolic 80 to 89) if lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, weight control) are not enough. For people with Stage 2 hypertension (systolic above 140 or diastolic above 90), guidelines recommend two or more medications.

Treatment Goals

A normal blood pressure is below 120/80. High blood pressure is above 130/80. Reducing high blood pressure is essential in prevention of stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. This is called primary prevention. In general, most people with hypertension who DO NOT have diabetes or cardiovascular disease should aim for blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg.

In other situations, target blood pressure goals may be different:

• When stroke, heart disease, or other cardiovascular problems are present, blood pressure control is even more important. This is called secondary prevention.
• Blood pressure control is also very important for those with diabetes, since their risk of cardiovascular disease is so much higher than in the general population. At the present, the American Diabetes Association still recommends a goal of 140/90 mmHg for people with hypertension and diabetes.
• Because of potential medication side effects, people over the age of 60 with high blood pressure may have different blood pressure goals.

For these specific groups, there is not full agreement between different expert groups on blood pressure goals.

Drug Treatment

Medications for initial treatment of high blood pressure fall into the following 4 categories:

• Diuretics rid the body of extra water and salt. Thiazide diuretics are one of the first-line treatments for high blood pressure.
• Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) reduce the production of angiotensin, a chemical that causes arteries to narrow.
• Angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) block the action of angiotensin.
• Calcium-channel blockers (CCBs) widen blood vessels and some decrease the strength of the heart's contractions.

Each drug has specific benefits. But their effects may vary depending on the individual. A doctor will prescribe a medication based on factors that consider a patient's:

• Race (Black patients may start with a thiazide diuretic or CCB; non-black patients may start with an ACEI, ARB, CCB, or thiazide, depending on age)
• Age (different medications recommended for patients under and over age 60)
• Other health conditions (diabetes, kidney disease, CAD, stroke history, and heart failure)

Side effects and problems with compliance

Side effects can be a problem with blood pressure medications. Some people find that the treatment may make them feel worse than the disease, which usually has no symptoms. Whatever the difficulties, compliance with a drug and lifestyle program is essential. It is very important to discuss any medication concerns with your doctor. If your current blood pressure drugs are causing uncomfortable side effects, your doctor may switch your drug, or adjust your dosages or combinations.

Withdrawal from anti-hypertensive medications

Some people whose blood pressure has been well-controlled and who are able to maintain a healthy lifestyle may be able to withdraw from medications. These are generally people with mild-to-moderate (Stage 1) hypertension who have been treated with a single medication. They should withdraw in a step-down manner (gradual reduction) and be monitored regularly. Stopping too quickly can have adverse effects, including serious effects on the heart.

Treatment of Resistant Hypertension

Some people are unable to meet target blood pressure goals despite consistently following a treatment plan that includes three or more medications. Factors that contribute to treatment resistant hypertension include:

• Older age (especially age 75 or older)
• High baseline blood pressure
• Medical conditions such as obesity, sleep apnea, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease

Treating any underlying medical condition is important for helping control blood pressure. People should be sure to adhere to healthy lifestyle changes and may require modifications to their drug regimens. Those with severe resistant hypertension should consult with a doctor who specializes in treating high blood pressure.

Treatment of Older Adults

Older adults should have their blood pressure monitored on a regular basis. High blood pressure is very common in older adults and can be challenging to control. In general, older adults usually have an elevated systolic blood pressure and a normal or low diastolic blood pressure, a condition known as isolated systolic hypertension.

Blood pressure drugs prescribed for older people are generally started at the lowest dose and then gradually increased as necessary. As with all people with high blood pressure, lifestyle changes are an essential component of treatment.

Medication side effects are an important concern for older people. In particular, antihypertensive drugs can increase the risk for falls. In treating elderly people, blood pressure targets need to be balanced against drug side effects.

Treatment of Children

Children and adolescents with even mild hypertension should be monitored and evaluated for any signs of early organ damage. Secondary hypertension (high blood pressure due to another disease or drug) is more common in children than adults.

Children with high blood pressure should first be treated with lifestyle changes, including:

• Weight reduction
• Increased physical activity
• Diet modification

If blood pressure is not controlled with lifestyle changes, drug treatment may be required.

Lifestyle Changes

Healthy lifestyle changes are an important first step for lowering blood pressure. Current guidelines recommend that people should:

• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day 5 days a week, which is 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise or 75 minutes a week of vigorous exercise.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Reduce sodium (salt) intake.
• Increase potassium intake.
• Limit alcohol consumption to no more than one or two drinks a day.
• Consume a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products while reducing total and saturated fat intake. (The DASH diet is one way to reach this goal.)
• Quit smoking.

Restricting Sodium (Salt)

In general, everyone should restrict their sodium intake to no more than 2,400 mg a day (less than 1 teaspoon of salt). This is particularly important for people over age 50, all African Americans, and everyone with high blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends that people with heart disease risk factors limit sodium intake to no more than 1,500 mg a day (about one half teaspoon). Sodium restriction lowers blood pressure and also helps protect against heart failure and heart disease.

Some people are salt sensitive. This means their blood pressure responds much more to salt than other people. People with salt sensitivity have a higher than average risk of developing high blood pressure, as well as other heart problems. Sodium restriction is particularly important for people with salt sensitivity, which includes:

• African Americans
• Older adults
• People with diabetes
• Overweight people
• People with a family history of hypertension

Salt substitutes such as Nu-Salt and Mrs. Dash are available. But they can be risky for people with kidney disease or those who take blood pressure medications that can cause potassium retention.

Some tips for lowering your salt and sodium intake include:

• Look for foods that are labeled low-sodium, sodium-free, no salt added, or unsalted. Check the total sodium content on food labels. Be especially careful of canned, packaged, frozen, and processed foods. A nutritionist can teach you how to understand these labels.
• Don't cook with salt or add salt to what you are eating. Instead, try pepper, garlic, lemon, or other spices for flavor. Be sure to read the ingredients on packaged spice blends. They may contain salt or salt products (like monosodium glutamate, MSG).
• Avoid processed meats, especially cured meats, bacon, hot dogs, sausage, bologna, ham, and salami.
• Avoid foods that are naturally high in sodium, like anchovies, nuts, olives, pickles, sauerkraut, soy and Worcestershire sauces, tomato and other vegetable juices, and cheese.
• Take care when eating out. Stick to steamed, grilled, baked, boiled, and broiled foods with no added salt, sauce, or cheese.
• On salads, use oil and vinegar, rather than bottled dressings.
• Eat fresh fruit or sorbet for dessert.

Increasing Potassium

A potassium-rich diet may help reduce blood pressure. Potassium-rich foods include:

• Bananas
• Oranges
• Pears
• Prunes
• Cantaloupes
• Tomatoes
• Dried peas and beans
• Nuts
• Potatoes
• Avocados

The recommended daily intake of potassium is 3,500 mg a day for people without risk factors for excess potassium levels.

Some people may need to take potassium supplements. However, people who already have kidney problems or who take medications that limit the kidney's ability to excrete potassium, such as ACE inhibitors, digoxin, or potassium-sparing diuretics, should not take potassium supplements and should be aware of excess potassium in their diet. You should discuss potassium intake with your provider.

DASH Diet

The salt-restrictive DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) is proven to help lower blood pressure, and may have additional benefits for preventing heart disease and stroke. Effects on blood pressure are sometimes seen within a few weeks. This diet is not only rich in important nutrients and fiber but also includes foods that contain far more potassium (4,700 mg/day), calcium (1,250 mg/day), and magnesium (500 mg/day), and much less sodium (salt) than the typical American diet.



DASH diet recommendations include:

• Limit sodium (salt) intake to no more than 2,300 mg a day. Some people may benefit from reducing sodium intake to no more than 1,500 mg a day.
• Reduce saturated fat intake to no more than 6% of daily calories and total fat to 27% of daily calories.
• Include dairy products that are non- or low-fat. Low-fat dairy products appear to be especially beneficial for lowering systolic blood pressure.
• When choosing fats, select monounsaturated oils, such as olive or canola oils.
• Choose whole grains over white flour or pasta products.
• Choose fresh fruits and vegetables every day. Many of these foods are rich in potassium, fiber, or both.
• Eat nuts, seeds, or legumes (dried beans or peas) daily.
• Choose modest amounts of protein (no more than 18% of total daily calories). Fish, skinless poultry, and soy products are the best protein sources.
• Limit carbohydrates to 55% of daily calories.
• Limit daily dietary cholesterol intake to 150 mg.
• Try to get at least 30 g of daily fiber.

Other Dietary Considerations

Fiber

Increasing fiber in the diet may help reduce blood pressure levels.

Fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids

The omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaneoic acids (EPA) are found in oily fish. Studies indicate that omega-3s from diet may have benefits for many medical conditions, including heart disease and hypertension. They help keep blood vessels flexible and may help protect the nervous system. Omega-3 fatty acids are also available in supplement form. But eating fish protects the heart more than taking fish oil supplements.




Click the icon to see an image of omega-3 fatty acids.

Calcium

Hypertension increases calcium loss from the body. Calcium regulates the tone of the smooth muscles lining blood vessels. Studies have found that people who consume adequate dietary calcium on a daily basis have lower blood pressure than those who DO NOT.

Consuming too much dietary calcium may have a negative effect. Some studies indicate that excess calcium intake (from dietary or supplement sources) may increase blood pressure and other heart disease risk factors.




Click the icon to see an image of calcium sources.

Weight Loss

Even modest weight loss in overweight people, particularly in the abdominal area, can immediately lower blood pressure. When accompanied by salt restriction, weight loss may allow people with mild hypertension to safely reduce or go off medications. The benefits of weight loss on blood pressure are long-lasting.

Exercise

Regular exercise helps keep arteries elastic, even in older people. This ensures blood flow and normal blood pressure. Doctors recommend at least 30 minutes of aerobic physical activity on most days. Even brisk walking can be beneficial.

High-intensity exercise may not lower blood pressure as effectively as moderate intensity exercise and may be dangerous in people with hypertension. Older people and those with uncontrolled hypertension or other serious medical conditions should check with their doctors before starting an exercise program.




Click the icon to see an image of lifestyle changes.

Quit Smoking

Everyone should quit smoking, especially people with high blood pressure and other heart disease risk factors.

Good Sleep Habits

Certain sleep disorders, especially obstructive sleep apnea, are associated with hypertension. Even chronic, insufficient sleep may raise blood pressure in people with hypertension, placing them at increased risk of heart disease and death. Stress hormone levels increase with sleeplessness, which can activate the sympathetic nervous system, a strong player in hypertension.

People who have chronic insomnia or other severe sleep disturbances may want to consult a doctor who specializes in sleep disorders. People with hypertension who are habitually poor sleepers should discuss with their doctors which blood pressure medications may help counteract the increase in blood pressure that occurs in the early morning hours.

Stress Reduction

Stress reduction may help blood pressure control. Yoga, Tai chi, biofeedback, device-guided breathing, and relaxation techniques such as meditation may provide modest benefits for some people.

Medications

Several classes of drugs are used to treat hypertension.

Diuretics

Diuretics help the kidneys get rid of excess salt and water. Thiazide diuretics are the mainstays of anti-hypertensive therapy and are usually the first type of drug selected for most people with hypertension. Thiazide diuretics are especially helpful for treating older people (over age 60) and African Americans. (African Americans are more likely to be salt-sensitive, so they respond well to these drugs.) Diuretics are often used in combination with other antihypertensive drugs.

There is strong evidence that diuretics work just as well as newer drugs in lowering blood pressure and are more effective in preventing heart failure, heart attack, and stroke.

The 3 main types of diuretics include:

• Thiazide diuretics. These include chlorthalidone (Thalitone, Clorpres), chlorothiazide (Diuril), indapamide (Lozol), hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL), bendroflumethiazide (Naturetin), methyclothiazide, (Enduron), and metolazone (Zaroxolyn). All of these prescription drugs are available in generic form. In most cases, thiazides are preferred to other diuretics for treatment of high blood pressure. Some providers fell that chlorthalidone has the best evidence for its use.  
• Potassium-sparing diuretics. These include amiloride (Midamor, generic), spironolactone (Aldactone, generic), and triamterene (Dyrenium, generic).
• Loop diuretics. Because loop diuretics act faster than other diuretics it is important to avoid dehydration and potassium loss. Loop diuretics include bumetanide (Bumex, generic), furosemide (Lasix, generic), ethacrynic acid (Edecrin, generic), and torsemide (Demadex, generic).

Common diuretic side effect symptoms include:

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst
• Fatigue
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Dizziness

Thiazide and loop diuretics reduce the body's supply of potassium (hypokalemia), which, if left untreated, increases the risk for arrhythmias. Arrhythmias are heart rhythm disturbances that can lead to cardiac arrest, although they rarely do. If you experience reduced potassium, your doctor will prescribe a lower dose of your current diuretic, recommend potassium supplements, or switch to a potassium-sparing diuretic either alone or in combination with a thiazide.

Potassium-sparing drugs have their own risks, which include dangerously high levels of potassium in people with existing elevated levels of potassium or in those with damaged kidneys. However, all diuretics are generally more beneficial than harmful when their use is monitored.

Other health concerns associated with thiazide diuretics include:

• Thiazide diuretics may raise blood sugar levels and increase the risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
• Erectile dysfunction (impotence) can be an uncommon side effect of thiazides.
• Elevated uric acid levels, and possibly gout.

ACE Inhibitors

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) widen blood vessels and decrease the workload of the heart. They treat high blood pressure and can also help protect the heart and kidneys.

An ACE inhibitor may be used as an initial blood pressure medication for non-black patients younger than age 60 years. ACEIs are also often used in combination with other anti-hypertensive medications.

Brands

ACE inhibitors include captopril (Capoten, generic), enalapril (Vasotec, generic), quinapril (Accupril, generic), benazepril (Lotensin, generic), ramipril (Altace, generic), perindopril (Aceon, generic), and lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril, generic).

Common side effect symptoms of ACE inhibitors include:

• Low blood pressure is the main side effect of ACE inhibitors. This can be severe in some people, especially at the start of therapy.
• An irritating dry cough is a common side effect, which some people find intolerable.
• ACE inhibitors can harm a developing fetus and should not be used during pregnancy. Women who become pregnant should change from ACE inhibitors to another type of blood pressure drug as soon as possible. Women of childbearing age who are considering becoming pregnant should also discuss other medications with their doctors.
• ACE inhibitors can increase potassium levels, particularly in people with kidney disease.

Uncommon Side Effects of ACE Inhibitors

• ACE inhibitors protect against kidney disease, but they may also increase potassium retention by the kidneys. If potassium levels become extremely high (hyperkalemia), they can cause the heart to stop beating (cardiac arrest). This side effect is uncommon, except in people with significant kidney disease. Because of this risk, ACE inhibitors are not usually used in combination with potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements.
• A rare but severe side effect is granulocytopenia, an extreme reduction in infection-fighting white blood cells.
• In very rare cases, people suffer a sudden and severe allergic reaction, called angioedema that causes swelling in the eyes and mouth and may close off the throat.

People who have difficulty tolerating ACE inhibitor side effects are usually switched to an angiotensin-receptor blocker (ARB).

Angiotensin-Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

ARBs, also known as angiotensin II receptor antagonists, are similar to ACE inhibitors in their ability to widen blood vessels and lower blood pressure. They may have fewer or less-severe side effects than ACE inhibitors, especially coughing, and are sometimes prescribed as an alternative to ACE inhibitors. In general, they are prescribed to people who cannot tolerate or DO NOT respond to ACE inhibitors.

Brands

Losartan (Cozaar, Hyzaar, generic), olmesartan (Benicar) candesartan (Atacand), telmisartan (Micardis), eprosartan (Teveten), irbesartan (Avapro), valsartan (Diovan), and azilsartan (Edarbi).

Side Effects

Common side effects of ARBs may include:

• Low blood pressure
• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Raised potassium levels
• Drowsiness
• Nasal congestion

NOTE: ARBs should not be used during pregnancy.

Calcium-Channel Blockers (CCBs)

Calcium-channel blockers (CCBs), also known as calcium antagonists, help relax blood vessels. Along with thiazide diuretics, CCBs appear to work better than other drug classes for lowering blood pressure in African Americans.

Brands

Diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor), amlodipine (Norvasc), felodipine (Plendil), isradipine (DynaCirc), verapamil (Calan, Isoptin, Verelan), nisoldipine (Sular), nicardipine (Cardene), and nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia).

Side Effects

Side effects of CCBs may include:

• Swelling in the feet
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Erectile dysfunction
• Gingivitis
• Rash
• Food interactions (DO NOT take CCBs with grapefruit or Seville orange products.)

Other Drugs

There are a number of combination medications that are available. Some include two antihypertensive medications, others contain a blood pressure medication and a cholesterol medication, for example. These may be more convenient for some patients, but do make it somewhat harder to change the doses of the component medications.

Beta blockers

Beta blockers help slow your heart rate and lower blood pressure. They are usually prescribed for people who have hypertension and CAD or heart failure. Brands include acebutolol (Sectral, generic), metoprolol (Lopressor, generic), and carvedilol (Coreg, generic). These drugs can have serious side effects and must be used carefully. Most important, suddenly stopping a beta blocker drug can potentially cause a heart attack. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you can stop taking this medication.

Alpha Blockers

Alpha blockers such as doxazosin (Cardura, generic), prazosin (Minipress, generic), and terazosin (Hytrin, generic) help widen small blood vessels. They are generally not used as first-line drugs for high blood pressure, but are prescribed if other drugs DO NOT work or as add-on medication.

Vasodilators

Vasodilators help open blood vessels by relaxing muscles in the blood vessel walls. These drugs are usually used in combination with a diuretic or a beta blocker. They are rarely used by themselves. Brands include hydralazine (Apresoline, generic), clonidine (Catapres, generic), and Minoxidil (Loniten, generic). Some of these drugs should be used with caution or not at all in people who have angina or who have had a heart attack.

Aliskiren (Tekturna)

Aliskiren (Tekturna, Amturnide) is a new kind of antihypertensive drug called a direct renin inhibitor. It blocks renin, a kidney enzyme associated with high blood pressure. Aliskiren is also available in the 2-in-1 combination pills Tekturna HCT (aliskiren and the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide) and Tekamlo (aliskiren and the calcium channel blocker amlodipine). Aliskiren is prescribed either alone or in combination with other blood pressure medications. However, people with diabetes or kidney impairment should not take aliskiren along with ACE inhibitors or ARBs because of increased risk for kidney damage and other problems. Aliskiren should not be used during pregnancy as it can cause injury or death to the fetus.

Resources

• American College of Cardiology -- www.acc.org
• American Heart Association -- www.heart.org
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute -- www.nhlbi.nih.gov

Related Reports

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Review Date: 12/23/2020  

Reviewed By: Michael A. Chen, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington Medical School, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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