Blood pressure variation and cardiovascular risks

Abstract

There are short-term and long-term variations seen in blood pressure. An abnormal pattern in cyclic variations of blood pressure (diurnal or seasonal) correlates well with an increased cardiovascular risk for hypertension, regardless of the resting blood pressure level. Increased blood pressure reactivity to external stimuli is also associated with a higher cardiovascular risk, and may be a significant determinant of cyclic blood pressure variations. A further understanding of the pathophysiological basis of abnormal blood pressure variations is recommended, and the physiological factors should be considered as new therapeutic targets. Copyright © 2008 The Korean Society of Cardiology.