High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common problem that affects people all over the world.
If not treated properly, it can lead to serious health issues like heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. This is especially true for older adults, who are more at risk. Finding the best and safest way to lower blood pressure in older people is very important.
Doctors used to recommend keeping the top number in a blood pressure reading (called systolic pressure) below 140 mmHg. But a new study now suggests that aiming for a lower number—below 130 mmHg—might be even better for people aged 60 and older.
This study was published in the journal Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications. Researchers used a special method called Bayesian network meta-analysis.
This type of analysis takes the results of several earlier studies and combines them to get stronger results. In this case, the team looked at six clinical trials that focused on older people with high blood pressure.
They compared different blood pressure targets to see which one worked best at preventing serious problems like heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, or death.
The study found that people whose blood pressure was lowered to below 130 mmHg were less likely to have heart problems than those with blood pressure at or above 140 mmHg. They also seemed to have a lower chance of dying from heart disease or other causes, although the difference wasn’t always large.
These results suggest that aiming for stricter blood pressure control could help protect the heart and improve health in older people. But the researchers also said more studies are needed. Not everyone reacts the same way to treatment, and blood pressure goals should be chosen based on each person’s needs and health conditions.
Treating high blood pressure usually involves taking medicine and making healthy lifestyle changes. Doctors can choose from many types of blood pressure medications depending on a person’s medical history. But people can also help themselves by making healthy choices every day.
Eating a diet that’s good for your heart is one of the best things you can do. This means eating less salt, more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and foods high in potassium.
Exercise is also important. Activities like walking, swimming, or riding a bike can help lower blood pressure naturally. Reducing stress through things like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can also make a big difference.
Other good habits include not smoking, drinking less alcohol, and getting enough sleep. Even small changes in these areas can add up and help improve your health.
This new research gives both doctors and patients more information to help make decisions. While trying to reach a lower blood pressure may help older people stay healthier, the plan should always be made with a doctor. What works for one person might not work for another.
In the end, the goal is to lower the risk of serious illness and help people live longer and healthier lives.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about common blood pressure medication that may extend your healthy life span and common high blood pressure drug linked to sudden cardiac arrest.
For more about blood pressure, please read studies that timing matters when taking high blood pressure pills and 1 in 5 people with high blood pressure taking a drug worsen the disease.
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