Good news for patients with high blood pressure!
New NIH guidelines for treatment of high blood pressure in adults have loosened the degree of control, particularly in elderly patients. We may need to discuss your particular situation to determine if your medication needs to be adjusted. This guideline was summarized earlier this year in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
The new guidelines are summarized below:
If you are younger than 65 years old – Treatment with medication is recommended if your systolic blood pressure is 140 mmHg or higher, or your diastolic blood pressure is 90 mmHg or higher
- If you are 60 years or older – Treatment with medication is recommended if your systolic blood pressure is 150 mmHg or higher, or your diastolic blood pressure is 90 mmHg or higher
- At any age if you have chronic kidney disease or diabetes – Treatment with medication is recommended if your systolic blood pressure is 140 mmHg or higher, or your diastolic blood pressure is 90 mmHg or higher