Blood pressure dysregulation syndrome - The case for control throughout the circadian cycle

Blood pressure dysregulation syndrome is characterized by abnormal swings i n blood pressure following postural changes, meals, exercise, and during sl eep. Although the syndrome may occur in normotensive individuals, a growing body of evidence suggests an association between blood pressure dysregulat ion and hypertension. Diagnosis can be aided using 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. Improved understanding of the syndrome and heightened awareness of its existence in older persons can help clinicians provide mo re effective management of hypertension. Adequate control of blood pressure throughout the circadian cycle should be a treatment objective.