Exercise and hypertension

Randomized, well-controlled exercise intervention studies have shown consis tently that regularly performed aerobic exercise significantly lowers blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension. Mild to moderate intensi ty exercise may be more effective in lowering blood pressure than higher in tensity exercises. Such exercise is also safe and effective in lowering blo od pressure in treated patients with severe hypertension and left ventricul ar hypertrophy. A significant reduction in blood pressure and regression of left ventricular hypertrophy may be achieved in these patients even after substantial reductions in antihypertensive medication. Recent findings have also shown that exercise training attenuates exaggerated blood pressure re sponse during physical exertion. The safety and efficacy of mild to moderat e exercise has significant and positive clinical implications for all hyper tensive patients. Exercise-induced reductions in resting blood pressure and prevention of abnormal increases in blood pressure during physical exertio n can lead to fewer cardiovascular events. They may also reduce antihyperte nsive medication requirements, cost, and medication-related side-effects, a nd improve quality of life. Coronary Artery Dis 1 1:99-1 02 (C) 2000 Lippin cott Williams & Wilkins.