Hypertension is a consistently elevated blood pressure above normal for a given age. It must be noted that “normal” varies according to different authorities.
A systolic blood pressure above 140mm HG and a diastolic pressure above 90mm HG can be called high enough to warrant observation in a healthy older person. However, each elderly person is given individual consideration before a diagnosis of hypertension is made. Hypertension in old age is caused by arteriosclerosis and increased resistance in peripheral blood vessels. Genetics may be a factor. The effects of smoking, alcohol , and diet on blood pressure in older people are not clear.
Older people with hypertension may complain of dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, and nosebleeds. Hypertension is linked to strokes, heart damage, and renal failure. Treatment is weight reduction, if necessary, antihypersensitive drugs, and limiting sodium in the diet.
Reference :Farrell J : Nursing Care of the Older Person, J.B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia, 1990.
