Circadian rhytm of blood pressure and the relation to cardiovascular risk factors

Abstract

Introduction: Numerous studies have established both arterial hypertension and white coat hypertension as cardiovascular risk factors. An abnormal circadian rhythm of blood pressure may increase cardiovascular risk. Objective: To determine the existence of a clinically relevant relationship between an abnormal circadian rhythm of blood pressure and an increase in cardiovascular risk in patients with hypertension or white coat hypertension. Methods: A descriptive study in 166 patients older than 18 years was carried out. Patients were from the Basic Health Area of Balaguer, who had an ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, conducted between June 2014 and March 2018 and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Univariate and bivariate analyses of the variables were performed. Results: In almost all means nighttime blood pressure, the riser pattern stands out, showing that 25% had a cardiovascular risk greater than or equal to 10%, followed by extreme dippers 16.67%, dippers 9.4% and non-dippers 8.27%. Conclusion: An altered circadian rhythm is related to a higher cardiovascular risk and a worse control of the related factors.