A retrospective study of 45,000 patient records presented in Hypertension found an association between the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the development of hypertension among adults who had no past history of high blood pressure. It’s unknown if the virus could be triggering the development of hypertension or worsening preexisting hypertension, according to the study’s lead author. But the association is significant. Among the records, 21% of those hospitalized with COVID-19 developed high blood pressure. By comparison, only 16% of those who were hospitalized with influenza and 4% of those with influenza who were not hospitalized developed high blood pressure. Patients with the SARS-CoV-2 virus who demonstrated elevated risk for developing hypertension were those over the age of 40; men; Black adults; and those with certain preexisting conditions.
Where urgent care can make a difference: With the recent uptick in COVID-19 cases, clinicians should consider appropriate follow-up recommendations for hypertension screening.
Related JUCM Research From the Archive: Implementing Clinical Practice Guidelines In Adults With Hypertension