The dilemma of isolated systolic hypertension.

Isolated systolic hypertension, characterized by elevated systolic blood pressure (greater than 150 to 165 mm Hg), normal diastolic blood pressure (less than 90 to 95 mm Hg) and, often, atherosclerosis, is now recognized as an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. When the systolic pressure is 200 mm Hg or greater, or when it is 180 mm Hg or greater and accompanied by target organ damage, therapeutic intervention may be of value in patients under the age of 80 years. Low doses of thiazide diuretics have been shown to be safe and effective in lowering the systolic pressure. If the blood pressure remains high, treatment with methyldopa may be added.