Blood-Pressure Advice Targets Heart Patients

Three expert groups have released blood-pressure treatment guidelines for people who already have heart problems. The guidelines focus on people with coronary artery disease. This is a narrowing of arteries to the heart because of plaque buildup. The guidelines say most people in this group should aim for a blood-pressure level of less than 140/90 millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The goal is 130/80 mmHg for those who already have had a heart attack, stroke or mini-stroke. This lower goal also applies to those who have had a narrowing of leg arteries or an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The guidelines come from a committee of experts. They represent many groups involved with the treatment of heart disease. In an interview with HealthDay News, the committee chairman said the guidelines are intended to be flexible.