|
|
|
UPDATE 2004 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GOAL: |
|
|
|
The primary objective in hypertension
(HTN) management treatment is to decrease blood pressure (BP) to less than
140/90 mm Hg. This goal may be lower
in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) or renal disease with proteinuria. ·
Clinical management should
begin by prescribing lifestyle modifications in all patients with HTN. Non-pharmacologic measures can control BP
or decrease the amount of required medication in most patients. ·
If lifestyle modification
alone is used as initial therapy, the trial should be relatively short (no
longer than 6 to 12 months), with frequent monitoring. Drug therapy should be instituted if blood
pressure goals are not attained. ·
Once effective control has
been achieved, follow-up can be scheduled at three to six month
intervals. Periodic follow up is
important for management of the hypertensive patient and to assess the
long-term response to therapy, monitor the development of target organ
damage, and reinforce lifestyle modifications. |
|
|
|
|
|