Hypertension & It’s Harmful Affects!

by Shanta Spurlin, RN

Hypertension, known as high blood pressure is prevalent in the elderly population today. Many people in the world today have Hypertension and are unaware. Hypertension is a silent killer, and many diseases are caused secondary to it. HTN is characterized by an elevated blood pressures measuring 140/90 or greater.HTN increase the risk for the elderly to have heart disease, stroke, kidney or renal problems which can cause patient’s to go on dialysis if it goes untreated. This disease can be deadly. Risk factors for hypertension include family history, ethnicity, poor, diet, being overweight, excessive alcohol intake, a sedentary lifestyle, and certain medications (Mauk, 2010, p.384).
As healthcare providers we should teach our patients and raise awareness to this disease and its harmful affects. It is important to diagnose and treat hypertension to reduce the incidence of cardiac disease (Mauk, 2010, p.368). Blood Pressure screenings should be done regularly to assess for ones risk for this disease and to properly diagnosis it. Diagnosis of hypertension should be based on several readings at different times or visits to the primary healthcare provider (Mauk, 2010, p.384).

The Pros of HTN is that it can be treated, controlled and even prevented, by lifestyle changes and modifications. Exercising, weight loss and management, reading food labels to reduce sodium intake, and diet change can help prevent and control HTN.
There are also medications that can be prescribed by a physician to help lower ones blood pressure and manage HTN. Some examples are Diuretics, Beta-blockers, and Ace inhibitors. The Goal of medical treatment in older adults is to lower blood pressure to 120/80 or below (Mauk, 2010, p.385).

References
Mauk, K. L. (2010). Gerontological Nursing (2nd Ed.). Valpraraiso, Indiana: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.

NOTE: This blog post reflects the work of a Registered Nurse with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.