Hypertension in the elderly: an overview.

: Hypertension in the elderly is associated with a high incidence of cardiovascular disease. There is no convincing data which prove that treatment of mild to moderate hypertension in this age group improves prognosis, but a review of available data suggests that treatment is beneficial. It is suggested that a thiazide diuretic or a beta-adrenoceptor blocking drug should be used as first-line therapy. These drugs may be combined if an inadequate response is seen and other drugs may be used if the blood pressure is not controlled.