How Question: I am a 78-year-old man and my blood pressure is on the high side. I heard that there are a new set of guidelines for high blood pressure, especially for my age. Can you please tell me those new guideline numbers?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
The new 2014 adult hypertension guidelines allow for more flexibility for control of blood pressure. They are as follows:
STRESS: Take steps to lower stress through lifestyle interventions.
SODIUM: Reduce excess salt in your diet.
TARGET BP: Less than 150/90, for those over 60; less than 140/90, for those under 60, with special emphasis on control of diastolic pressure (the second reading) to less than 90 in those under 30.
PEOPLE WITH DIABETES, KIDNEY DISEASE: BP goals are the same as those for age under 60.
MEDICATION: For most patients with high blood pressure, treatment with an ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor), ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker), calcium channel blocker, or thiazide diuretic is recommended. In African-Americans, a calcium channel blocker or thiazide diuretic should be used first. Note: Beta Blockers no longer a favored first choice for treatment of uncomplicated hypertension.
GOALS: Target BP should be reach in one month after beginning treatment.
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