Can High BP in Middle Age Cause Brain Damage Later?

About the study

Findings of the study

• The study found that diastolic blood pressure in people in their 40s and 50s is linked to extensive brain damage in later life. It noted that a higher WMH load was strongly linked to current systolic blood pressure. However, the strongest correlation was with past diastolic blood pressure, particularly in middle-aged people. Researchers say this means that managing diastolic blood pressure is also important to prevent damage to brain tissue.
• Among the top 10% of participants with the highest WMH load, having systolic blood pressure over 120mmHg accounted for 24% of the load. On the other hand, 7% of the load was attributed to diastolic blood pressure above 70mmHg.
• The study showed that even a relatively low surge in blood pressure beyond the normal range correlated with a higher amount of WMH. This implies that increased blood pressure starts damaging the brain tissue even before it meets the treatment criteria for hypertension.
• The proportion of WMH load increased by an average of 1.126-fold for every 10mmHg increase in systolic blood pressure beyond the normal range. On the other hand, for every 5mmHg increase in diastolic blood pressure above the normal range, the proportion of WMH load rose by an average of 1.106-fold.

How to manage blood pressure?

• Lose weight
• Increase physical activity and exercise more
• Follow a balanced and healthy diet
• Reduce the intake of salt
• Limit consumption of alcohol
• Quit tobacco
• Limit intake of caffeinated beverages
• Manage stress
• Monitor blood pressure regularly

Conclusion

Talk to a Cardiologist