Evaluation and treatment of hypertension

Hypertension is prevalent and strongly associated with the development of c ardiovascular disease. The current recommendations for treatment of hyperte nsion according to level of risk are examined. Nonpharmacologic and pharmac ologic therapy are outlined. In particular, treatment recommendations and d rug choices in the setting of diabetes mellitus, peripheral vascular diseas e, asthma, Raynaud's, gastroesphageal reflux disease, and renal insufficien cy are reviewed. Effects on blood pressure of drugs used in rheumatologic p ractice are discussed.