permissive hypertension for stroke

For individuals who have suffered a stroke, employing a permissive hypertension approach may contribute to better outcomes. This approach entails a more lenient stance on high blood pressure under certain circumstances, rather than aggressively reducing it.

Post-stroke, sustaining an adequate blood pressure is crucial for maintaining cerebral blood flow and preventing further ischemic damage. Typically, if a patient's systolic blood pressure is below 200 mmHg and their diastolic pressure is below 110 mmHg, physicians may opt to withhold antihypertensive medications for the time being. This is because, in the case of acute ischemic stroke, a moderate level of hypertension can help preserve cerebral perfusion, which is beneficial for the recovery of the affected brain tissue.

However, this does not imply that hypertension is entirely benign for stroke patients. Chronic hypertension remains a significant risk factor for stroke. Consequently, once the acute phase of stroke has passed, patients must continue to manage their blood pressure under medical supervision to minimize the risk of a recurrent stroke. Additionally, patients should focus on lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, and alcohol moderation, to aid in blood pressure control.