Blood pressure

What it is

Blood pressure is the force of blood against artery walls, written as systolic over diastolic. High blood pressure (hypertension) usually has no symptoms and is the single largest treatable contributor to stroke, heart failure, kidney disease and dementia. The live debates are how low to aim (120 versus 130 or 140 systolic), especially in older adults and after stroke, how to get the half of patients who are uncontrolled onto effective treatment, and the role of salt, sleep and alcohol.

This week · Two trials pointed in different directions: a lower target after stroke reduced heart risk, while intensive treatment in diabetes did not cut cardiovascular events.

Written by the Alivewire editors from the coverage below, 3d ago. Not medical advice; how the ratings work.