Isolated Systolic High Blood Pressure

Overview

In isolated systolic high blood pressure (isolated systolic hypertension, or ISH), systolic blood pressure is elevated, but diastolic blood pressure is normal. This type of high blood pressure is more common in older adults, especially older women.

High blood pressure increases your risk for stroke and heart disease. How much it increases your risk depends on how high your blood pressure is.

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to lower your blood pressure. Lifestyle changes include eating healthy with the DASH diet, losing weight, being active, limiting sodium, and limiting alcohol.

Depending how high your blood pressure is and your overall risk for a heart attack or stroke, your doctor may also talk to you about taking medicines to help lower blood pressure more. Medicines include:

  • Diuretics.
  • ACE inhibitors.
  • ARBs.
  • Beta-blockers.
  • Calcium channel blockers.

Credits

Current as of: June 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.