RESUMO
In clinical practice, the idea of treating hypertension should not be confined to lowering blood pressure alone. Hypertensive patients are often obese, diabetic, and sedentary. A 'global' perspective is therefore important. Such an approach will recognise the need to promote lifestyle modifications, including advice on a healthy diet, exercise, cessation of cigarette smoking, and reduction of alcohol intake. This article is not meant to be a treatise on hypertensive therapy - the aim is to highlight issues relevant to hypertension treatment in the Caribbean (AU)
Assuntos
Humanos , Adulto , Idoso , Hipertensão/diagnóstico , Hipertensão/terapia , Comportamento Alimentar , Resultado do Tratamento , Tratamento Farmacológico , Região do CaribeRESUMO
Severe or resistant hypertension is fortunately not very common in the general population. When discovered, the practitioner must be alert to the fact that alcohol excess and commonly available over-the-counter drugs could be contribution factors. An adequate history would eliminate the need for unnecessary investigations and treatment. Physical examination should be focused upon target organ damage, which if identified should lead to prompt refferal to a specialist centre for treatment. Treatment should be aggressive yet controlled (AU)
