Hypertensive Heart Disease

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Treatment

The goals of treatment are to reduce blood pressure and control the heart disease. Treatment of heart disease depends on which condition is present (acute myocardial infarction, angina, heart failure, and so on).

Common medications include diuretics, potassium replacements, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, and direct vasodilators. Diazoxide and nitroprusside are intravenous medications that may be prescribed if hypertension is extremely severe and intensive care is necessary.

Blood pressure should be checked at regular intervals (as recommended by the health care provider) to monitor the condition. Frequent blood pressure measurements performed at home are often recommended for patients who have difficult-to-control high blood pressure. Diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and other conditions that increase the risk of heart disease should be carefully controlled.

In addition to medications, recommended lifestyle changes include weight loss, exercise, and dietary adjustments. Recent dietary recommendations include increasing fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products. Whole grains, poultry, and fish are also generally recommended.

Older patients may benefit from reducing salt intake. If you smoke, stop smoking -- cigarettes are a major cause of hypertension and related heart disease. Reducing excessive alcohol consumption can also help.