Practical approach to hypertension

Abstract

The comprehensive diagnostic evaluation once recommended for hypertension is no longer practical or necessary. In the majority of cases, a thorough history, physical examination, and basic laboratory workup are sufficient to determine the severity of the hypertension and to detect target organ damage. Secondary hypertension is truly rare in clinical practice and should not be pursued with complex, costly, and possibly risky tests unless specifie indications are present. Part 2 of this article considers treatment and begins on page 81.