resistant hypertension guidelines

Resistant hypertension is characterized by blood pressure that remains uncontrolled below the target level despite adherence to a healthy lifestyle and treatment with three or more different classes of antihypertensive medications. Addressing this condition necessitates collaborative efforts between healthcare providers and patients to manage blood pressure through lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions.

In managing resistant hypertension, it is crucial to ensure that patients maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, moderate alcohol consumption, and weight control. Physicians will then select an appropriate combination of antihypertensive medications based on the patient's specific condition and tolerance, potentially including diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), and calcium channel blockers. Furthermore, for certain specific cases of resistant hypertension, such as sleep apnea syndrome or primary aldosteronism, targeted treatments are also required.

For individuals with resistant hypertension, it is advised to monitor blood pressure regularly, adhere to the prescribed treatment plan, and avoid making unilateral decisions to adjust medication dosages or switch medications. Maintaining good lifestyle habits and actively engaging in a comprehensive treatment plan with healthcare providers is essential to achieve blood pressure control. Should blood pressure remain difficult to manage, it is imperative to seek timely medical attention and consult with a specialist.