Resistant hypertension. Suggestions for dealing with the problem.

With appropriate evaluation of both patient- and physician-related factors, many cases of resistant hypertension can be resolved. Patients often do not understand the implications of their disease and need specific information regarding the importance of compliance with medication schedules and dietary restrictions. Physicians should also consider the possibility of drug resistance or the presence of an identifiable secondary cause, such as renal artery stenosis, chronic renal parenchymal disease, or pheochromocytoma.