Emerging Treatment Options in Patients With Difficult-to-Treat Hypertension - Episode 2
Resistant Hypertension: Diagnosis and Real-World Challenges
Explore the complexities of resistant hypertension, its causes, and effective treatment strategies to achieve better blood pressure control.
Summary for Physicians
Resistant Hypertension in Clinical Practice
Resistant hypertension is defined as uncontrolled blood pressure despite the use of 3 or more antihypertensive agents, including a diuretic. It may also refer to cases requiring 4 or more medications to achieve control. Differentiating true resistance from pseudo-resistance (eg, nonadherence, poor technique) is critical.
Common Causes
Key contributors include medication nonadherence, high sodium intake, obesity, secondary hypertension, and drug interactions (eg, NSAIDs).
White Coat Effect
The white coat effect—elevated blood pressure in clinical settings only—can lead to misdiagnosis. Accurate blood pressure measurement and out-of-office monitoring are essential for proper diagnosis.
Comorbidities
Obesity, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes worsen hypertension control and require integrated management strategies to improve outcomes.
