Common causes of cardiovascular disease of adult morbidity and mortality
Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of adult morbidity and mortality, accounting for 31% of deaths worldwide. The most common vascular system disorder is hypertension, defined by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association (AHA) as blood pressure >130/80 mm Hg.
How do antihypertensive medications interact with determinants of cardiac output and peripheral resistance to reduce blood pressure?
What are the most common complications of untreated or undertreated hypertension?
Sample Solution
Antihypertensive Medications and Blood Pressure Control
Antihypertensive medications work through various mechanisms to reduce blood pressure by interacting with the determinants of cardiac output and peripheral resistance:
Full Answer Section
Cardiac Output:
- Beta-blockers: Decrease heart rate and contractility, reducing the volume of blood pumped