Fast Facts: Hypertension

Hypertension is the biggest cause of death and disability in the world, yet it remains underdiagnosed, undertreated and, in many cases, poorly controlled. As in the previous edition, 'Fast Facts: Hypertension' advises on:

• accurate measurement of blood pressure and problems such as 'white-coat' hypertension

• routine assessments for people with high blood pressure

• other modifiable risk factors (smoking, high cholesterol levels etc.)

• non-pharmacological measures (reducing salt, losing weight, increasing physical activity etc.)

• rational and effective use of all drug treatments

• identification of people with secondary hypertension

• treatment of children, pregnant women, the elderly and patients with diabetes.

Updates in this new edition include:

• distinguishing between patients with primary (low renin) and secondary aldosteronism

• greater use of home BP measurement in clinical decision-making

• the latest thinking on BP treatment thresholds

• new guidance on fourth-line therapy for resistant hypertension

Sometimes dubbed 'the silent killer', hypertension rarely produces symptoms until it manifests as a heart attack or stroke, so early identification of the condition and appropriate management are vital. This practical readable refresher for every-day use supports better investigation and treatment of high blood pressure by primary care providers and better self-management by patients.

Contents:

• The dangers of raised blood pressure

• Causes

• Investigation

• When to treat

• How to treat

• Special patient groups

• Uncontrolled hypertension

• Useful resources