This Week’s Question:
A nonsmoking patient who apparently visits the gym with some regularity
presents with a case of the flu and is incidentally noted to have a
blood pressure reading of 139/88 mm Hg. According to the new JNC 7 hypertension
guidelines, this individual should be put on a therapeutic regimen consisting
of:
1. A low-dose ACE inhibitor
for 2 months, then retesting to consider up-titration
2. A diuretic only, with addition of
a beta-blocker after 6 months if blood pressure doesn't fall to 120/80
mm Hg
3. A diuretic plus a low-dose calcium
channel blocker
4. Lifestyle counseling, emphasizing
possible dietary modifications
