SYMPOSIUM ON HYPERTENSION IN THE ELDERLY
- 1 July 1979
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Oxford University Press (OUP) in Age and Ageing
- Vol. 8 (2) , 104-109
- https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/8.2.104
Abstract
Several of the factors responsible for circulatory control are modified in the elderly. Loss of elasticity of the aortic wall produces a widened pulse pressure and a high incidence of systolic hypertension. Attempts to normalize this may be associated with disabling diastolic hypotension. Arterial baroreceptor sensitivity and responsiveness of the renin-angiotensin system is reduced. Further, the renal capacity to conserve sodium and water is impaired. All these increase the risks associated with antihypertensive treatment, but do not contra-indicate such treatment.Keywords
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