Hypertension and Cognitive Disorders

Authors

Kannayiram Alagiakrishnan, From the Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
Tyler Halverson, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Ali Ahmed, Department of Medicine, Washington, DC VA Medical Center, George Washington University School of Medicine, and Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC.
William H. Frishman, Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY.
Wilbert S. Aronow, Departments of Cardiology and Medicine, Westchester Medical Center and New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY.

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

12-23-2024

Journal

Cardiology in review

DOI

10.1097/CRD.0000000000000825

Abstract

Systemic hypertension is possibly the most important modifiable risk factor for the development of cognitive decline, both for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. For effective blood pressure (BP) control, it requires proper assessment, using brachial, central, and ambulatory measurements, and monitoring with a focus on different BP parameters. Different BP parameters like pulse pressure, mean arterial pressure, BP variability, and circadian parameters, like nondippers and early morning surge, should be considered in the evaluation for the risk of cognitive decline due to hypertension in middle age and older adults. Chronic hypertension causes vascular remodeling in the brain and leads to brain failure or cognitive decline. Achieving specific BP goals can improve clinical outcomes and possibly slow down cognitive decline for patients with comorbid hypertension and cognitive impairment.

APA Citation

Alagiakrishnan, Kannayiram; Halverson, Tyler; Ahmed, Ali; Frishman, William H.; and Aronow, Wilbert S., "Hypertension and Cognitive Disorders" (2024). GW Authored Works. Paper 6107.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/gwhpubs/6107

Department

Medicine