High blood pressure is a growing problem worldwide, and it’s challenging to manage. While changes in diet, lifestyle, and medication are common treatments, many people still struggle with high blood pressure. This puts them at a greater risk for heart and kidney disease, as well as strokes.
Introducing a New Solution
A recent study published in the JAMA medical journal highlights a new approach to treating high blood pressure. This method involves a simple procedure performed under the skin, similar to inserting a stent, which is a small tube used to open blocked blood vessels.
This new procedure is designed for people whose high blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite taking medication.
How the Procedure Works
The procedure uses sound energy, delivered through a small balloon, to disrupt the nerves connected to the main blood vessel supplying the kidneys.
This technique is called renal denervation (RDN). It can be used alone or in combination with medication to manage high blood pressure.
The RDN procedure is minimally invasive and doesn’t require large incisions. A small tube, or catheter, is inserted into the body through a tiny hole in the wrist or groin. This catheter is guided to the blood vessel leading to the kidney.
Once in place, sound energy or radiofrequency is sent into the surrounding tissues, reducing nerve activity and lowering blood pressure. The catheter is then removed after the procedure is completed on both kidneys.
The Effectiveness of the Procedure
A major clinical trial involving 224 patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure demonstrated the effectiveness of this procedure.
Dr. Stephen Jenkins of Ochsner Health, who contributed to the study, explained that this procedure offers a new option for people struggling with high blood pressure. By reducing the activity of the nerves that contribute to high blood pressure, this method has shown promising results.
Previous trials had already indicated that this procedure could lower blood pressure in patients with mild to moderate and resistant high blood pressure. The latest trial, known as the Radiance II trial, confirmed its effectiveness in patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure.
The results showed that patients’ blood pressure remained lower for two months following the procedure, suggesting it could be a valuable treatment option.
Consistent Results Across Studies
The findings of three studies on this procedure were also published in JAMA Cardiology, involving data from over 500 patients. These studies consistently demonstrated that the procedure effectively lowers blood pressure across various cases of high blood pressure.
For those interested in managing high blood pressure, additional studies suggest that drinking tea and practicing early time-restricted eating might also help lower blood pressure.
Other recent research indicates that reducing added sugar in the diet and increasing vitamin D intake could improve blood pressure, particularly in people with diabetes.
This promising new treatment, detailed in the study published in JAMA, offers a new avenue for those struggling to control their high blood pressure, potentially reducing their risk of serious health complications.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about what to eat and to avoid for high blood pressure, and 12 foods that lower blood pressure.
For more health information, please see recent studies about the connection between potato and high blood pressure, and how to eat your way to healthy blood pressure.
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