The Facts About ISH (heart Health)
Blood pressure is typically recorded as two numbers — the systolic pressure (as the heart beats) over the diastolic pressure (as the heart relaxes between beats). Systolic high blood pressure is the most common form of high blood pressure for older Americans. When that happens, the condition is called “isolated systolic hypertension,” or ISH.
Any form of high blood pressure is dangerous if not properly treated. If left uncontrolled, it can lead to stroke, heart attack, congestive heart failure, kidney damage, blindness, or other conditions. While it cannot be cured once it has developed, ISH can be controlled.
Treatment options for ISH are the same as for other types of high blood pressure, in which both systolic and diastolic pressures are high. ISH is treated with lifestyle changes, medications, or both. The key for any high blood pressure treatment is to bring the condition under proper control. Blood pressure should be controlled to less than 140/90. If yours is not, then ask your doctor why. You may just need a lifestyle or drug change, such as reducing salt or adding a second medication
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