Tips for Precise Readings

Author(s):

Manesh R. Patel, MD,Payal Kohli, MD, FACC

Key Takeaways

Difficult-to-treat hypertension involves uncontrolled blood pressure despite using three or more antihypertensive medications, including a diuretic.
It is distinct from resistant hypertension, which is more common and may not include a diuretic in treatment.
This condition affects a smaller subset of patients with high blood pressure and requires a comprehensive management approach.
Lifestyle modifications and evaluation for secondary causes are crucial for optimal management of difficult-to-treat hypertension.

Panelists discuss how proper blood pressure measurement techniques require careful attention to patient positioning, cuff size selection, and standardized procedures to ensure accurate readings.