Articles tagged with Hypertension
Researchers linked poorly controlled hypertension with a higher risk of depression in patients. The study highlights the importance of treating depression to prevent poor blood pressure control and related health risks.
A study by Laura Svetkey and colleagues found that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products, combined with regular exercise, can effectively lower blood pressure. The DASH diet was paired with traditional dietary and exercise guidance for the best results.
The PREMIER study found that an all-in-one approach to lifestyle changes, including diet and physical activity, significantly lowered blood pressure in participants. The study showed that those who made the greatest lifestyle changes had the best results, with significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
A 12-week study found that drinking Concord grape juice daily reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive men by nearly six points. The results, presented at the FASEB annual meeting, suggest a possible mechanism of action involving improved arterial wall flexibility.
Studies found associations between high blood pressure, retinal changes, and increased risk of stroke and age-related macular degeneration. Hypertension and pulse pressure may be markers for small-vessel diseases that predict stroke and other vascular events.
Researchers found that simvastatin, a cholesterol-lowering statin, prevents diet-induced arterial hypertension and metabolic insulin resistance in mice by stimulating nitric oxide bioavailability. This effect appears to be related to stimulation of vascular NO availability.
A new research study suggests that grape seed extract can blunt salt-sensitive hypertension in postmenopausal women, similar to the effects of plant estrogens or 17ß-estradiol. The study found that adding grape seed extract to a high-salt diet reduced blood pressure in estrogen-depleted female rats.
The first International Preeclampsia Summit is being held to bring together experts in the field to discuss ways to intervene and reduce maternal illness and death due to preeclampsia. The summit aims to prioritize appropriate treatment options for this top cause of maternal mortality.
A study in Ecuador found that over a third of adults had high blood pressure, with fewer than 1% having well-controlled hypertension. Most cardiovascular deaths were among younger individuals, highlighting the need for accessible care and affordable drugs.
A study found that people with metabolic syndrome are 1.5 times more likely to develop a stroke than those without it, with women being 2.1 times more at risk. The condition is also associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and vascular-related deaths.
A new study has found that African Americans are at higher risk of developing hypertensive retinopathy, a sign of severe hypertension. The study, which included over 15,000 participants, found that racial differences in blood pressure levels and hypertension severity were the main factors contributing to this disparity.
A study of 4,500 youth ages 9, 13, and 16 found higher systolic blood pressures than expected, with more significant increases in obese children. The research suggests a strong correlation between childhood obesity and elevated blood pressure.
Scientists have identified a key protein involved in regulating blood pressure, RGS2, which works by stopping the action of angiotensin II and enabling arterioles to relax. This discovery may lead to new ways of diagnosing and treating high blood pressure in individuals with underlying genetic defects or differences.
A study found that mice deficient in RGS2, a regulatory protein, exhibited persistent vessel constriction and strongly hypertensive effects. This suggests that abnormally prolonged GPCR signaling may contribute to the onset of hypertension.
Researchers found that RGS2-deficient mice developed strongly hypertensive conditions and persistent vessel constriction due to prolonged GPCR signaling. Genetic defects affecting RGS2 function may also contribute to hypertension in humans, according to findings published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.
Research on montelukast treatment for reactive airway disease in infants with RSV bronchiolitis shows increased symptom-free days and nights, while study on exercise capacity in COPD patients reveals it as the best predictor of mortality.
A study analyzing data from a large ongoing stroke study found that living in an area with high poverty levels and unemployment is an independent risk factor for stroke. The finding holds true across racial groups, highlighting the need to rethink stroke-prevention programs and prioritize disadvantaged communities.
A man with kidney disease experienced severe abdominal pain after using a whirlpool in a Jacuzzi, highlighting potential health risks. The case study suggests that whirlpooling may cause mechanical injury to the kidneys, particularly under conditions like hypertension or anticoagulation.
Despite being enrolled in a clinical trial comparing anti-clotting agents, African American stroke patients show poor rates of awareness, treatment, and control of diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. These findings are concerning, as heart disease and stroke can be prevented with vigilant risk factor management.
The Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT) revealed that diuretic chlorthalidone is more effective in controlling hypertension than other drugs. The study, involving over 33,000 participants, showed that patients require multiple medications to manage blood pressure effectively.
A recent NHLBI study found that traditional diuretics are more effective than newer antihypertensive medications in treating high blood pressure and preventing cardiovascular events. The study, which involved over 42,000 participants, showed that diuretics reduced the risk of heart attacks and strokes by 34% compared to the other groups.
A Phase II clinical trial has shown that an hemoglobin raffimer may be effective in reducing the need for transfused blood during heart surgery. The study found that patients treated with the agent experienced no significant negative side effects, except for elevated blood pressures, which were manageable.
Researchers found that calcium channel blockers primarily affect small arteries called 'store-operated' channels, suggesting a new class of drugs with fewer side effects. This discovery could lead to improved treatment options for heart disease and high blood pressure.
A study found that mailed health promotions reduced outpatient visits by an average of 4.84 visits among arthritis patients, while increasing visits for high blood pressure patients. The interventions generated significant savings, supporting the potential cost-effectiveness of health mailings for managing chronic conditions.
A pioneering study found that time urgency and impatience during young adulthood are associated with increased risk of developing hypertension years later. The strongest link was seen among white men, who were more than three times as likely to develop high blood pressure as those in lower TUI groups.
The World Health Report 2002 reveals that childhood and maternal underweight, unsafe sex, high blood pressure, and tobacco consumption are the leading causes of global burden of disease. Increasing fruit and vegetable consumption can be a simple step towards reducing certain risk factors.
The new recommendations aim to lower average systolic blood pressure among Americans by 5 mmHg, resulting in a 14% drop in stroke deaths and 7% overall mortality. Proven behavioral changes such as regular physical activity, weight loss, and dietary potassium intake can also significantly lower blood pressure.
A study of 1,900 older African-American participants found that continuous antihypertensive medication reduced the risk of memory loss by over a third. The research provides another reason for African-Americans to take their blood pressure pills and highlights the importance of managing high blood pressure to prevent cognitive impairment.
The NHLBI has funded new heart health education projects in high-risk communities across the US, with a focus on reducing cardiovascular disease and stroke deaths. The projects will employ creative approaches to engage communities, including training peer health educators and conducting awareness-raising town-hall meetings.
Research found that reducing blood pressure to less than the standard goal also lowered artery stiffness in patients with high blood pressure. The study involved 142 nondiabetic patients who received antihypertensive drugs, resulting in a significant decrease in artery stiffness for those with lower target pressures.
A double-blind, randomized controlled trial found that taking aspirin at bedtime significantly reduced the risk of preterm labor and preeclampsia in pregnant women with high blood pressure. The study also showed significant weight gains in babies born to mothers who took aspirin at night.
A large study found that non-dippers have higher levels of fibrinogen, a clotting factor, which could account for increased risk. Fibrinogen levels vary over the year, peaking in winter months, and a 75 mg/dL increase translates to an 85% increased risk for coronary events.
The tolerance-hyperbaric test (THT) can identify pregnant women at high risk for gestational high blood pressure and preeclampsia up to 23 weeks before clinical confirmation. The test's sensitivity reaches 99% by the third trimester, providing early prevention opportunities.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that patients taking losartan had a significantly lower combined rate of cardiovascular death, stroke, and heart attack compared to those taking atenolol. The results showed a 40% reduction in stroke risk and a lower overall mortality rate.
A study of 15 research studies found that high psychological distress was associated with an 8% increased risk of developing hypertension. The researchers suggest that the relationship between psychological factors and hypertension development is a significant concern for clinical health experts.
Research found that adolescent blood pressure increases differ by ethnicity and sex. Black participants showed greater blood pressure responses to stress compared to white subjects. Males also exhibited higher blood pressure levels during relaxation, similar to findings in adults.
A recent study by UC Irvine researchers suggests that dwelling on emotionally charged events, such as arguments, can lead to higher blood pressure and increased risk of later health problems. The study found that ruminating over past stresses can cause longer recovery times in the body than non-emotional yet stressful events like running.
Drs. Gerald DiBona and John Hall have overturned the medical community's long-held understanding of kidney function, revealing that increased nerve activity leads to high blood pressure. Their research shows that abnormal kidney function causes salt and water excretion to decrease, resulting in hypertension.
A new vaccine has been shown to prevent stroke in rats by reducing inflammation in blood vessels. The study found that the vaccine reduced ischemic strokes by 16 times and prevented hemorrhagic strokes altogether.
Researchers found that genes, rather than blood pressure or age, significantly impact heart function and the risk of developing diastolic heart failure. The study suggests that an individual's genetic makeup may be programmed from birth, determining their future heart health.
Researchers found that women with higher fitness levels showed a blunted systolic blood pressure response during the hand/ice water test, which could help predict future hypertension risk. Fitness levels did not affect blood pressure changes during other tests, but increased heart rates in fitter participants.
Researchers found that linoleic acid significantly improved vasodilatory responses and decreased systolic blood pressures in spontaneously hypertensive rats. The study also showed that linoleic acid administration improved spatial reference memory in older SHRs, suggesting a positive link between D1 receptor density and cognitive funct...
CWRU scientists discover that applying magnesium to calcium-activated potassium channels reduces blood pressure by causing blood vessels to dilate. This research may help explain why magnesium supplements are effective in managing hypertension.
Researchers at the University of Louisville found a link between sleep apnea and high blood pressure through protein changes in laboratory rats. The study suggests that the connection plays a significant role in developing high blood pressure during bouts of sleep apnea.
A 7-week dietary intervention found that omega-3 supplements increased systemic arterial compliance by 36% with EPA and 27% with DHA. Both groups also showed significant declines in plasma total triacylglycerol concentrations, suggesting a potential benefit for heart health.
Research suggests that even moderate drinking habits can increase hypertension risk in Japanese men, contrary to previous US studies. Obesity and genetic factors may contribute to this difference in findings.
A study of 144 physicians found that treating substance-abusing patients leads to lower professional satisfaction rates compared to caring for patients with hypertension. The findings suggest that addressing physician dissatisfaction in drug abuse treatment may improve patient outcomes.
The AT1-receptor blocker Atacand significantly reduces non-fatal strokes in elderly patients with mild hypertension while maintaining cognitive function. Lowering blood pressure also shows no significant increase in cognitive decline or dementia risk.
A recent study found that pressure-lowering eye drops reduced the development of primary open-angle glaucoma by over 50 percent. The study suggests that treating people with elevated eye pressure may delay or prevent glaucoma, particularly in those at higher risk due to age, ethnicity, or ocular characteristics.
A survey found that few Americans are aware of ocular hypertension, with only 41% recognizing it as a factor in glaucoma risk. Many individuals over 40 years old are unaware they need routine screening for the condition, despite being at increased risk.
Research suggests that preeclampsia may decrease the risk of preterm delivery when a woman smokes, but negative effects persist even without clinical preeclampsia. Abnormal implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus may also continue to affect pregnancy outcomes.
Research suggests a link between mild vitamin C deficiency and increased blood vessel stiffness in pregnant rats, potentially exacerbating preeclampsia risk. Pregnant women with a history of preeclampsia face an elevated chance of developing the disorder again in subsequent pregnancies.
Research suggests preeclampsia is associated with increased risk of preterm delivery and later-life hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Elevated sialic acid levels indicate inflammation and are linked to atherosclerosis, suggesting a potential preventive role for aspirin.
A 12-month study of 430 overweight men and women showed a significant weight loss of 11.6 kg with Xenical, with improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and waist circumference. The results demonstrate the efficacy of Xenical in a real-life clinical practice setting.
A six-week study of 246 black men found that Viagra significantly improved erections and sexual intercourse ability compared to placebo. ED was a common problem among black men, affecting 24% of those aged 40 and above. Treatment with Viagra was well-tolerated, with no serious adverse effects observed.
Lonely college students exhibited increased blood pressure from mentally stressful tasks, with higher vascular resistance and lower cardiac output compared to non-lonely peers. In older subjects, systolic blood pressure rose with age in lonely individuals, suggesting a pervasive cardiovascular risk associated with loneliness.
The CONVINCE trial demonstrated that a controlled-onset extended-release calcium channel blocker, COVERA-HS, can provide equivalent effects to standard care therapy in reducing cardiovascular events. The study found that over 84% of patients achieved blood pressure control after medication titration.
A study found that young black males and females retain sodium even after stress subsides, leading to prolonged elevated blood pressure and increased cardiovascular load. Researchers suggest this impaired natriuresis mechanism contributes to the development of essential hypertension in blacks.
A 12-week study found that Viagra improved erections for 71% of men, compared to 18% on placebo. The medication was well-tolerated with mild side effects, making it a good option for men who need to treat both high blood pressure and erectile dysfunction.
A mobile screening program at 39 Winston Cup race weekends screened 24,000 people, revealing high blood pressure and cholesterol levels as risk factors for heart disease. The screenings also assessed erectile dysfunction and provided health information and advice to participants.