Physiologically Speaking A Conversation on Lifestyle Factors for Optimizing Cardiovascular Health with Dr. Joseph Watso
Jan 29, 2024
Dr. Joseph Watso, an Assistant Professor at Florida State University, leads research on cardiovascular health. He discusses the alarming rise of hypertension in the U.S. and its links to obesity and diabetes. The impact of aging on heart health is explored, emphasizing lifestyle choices over genetics. Watso also dives into how pain medications like ketamine and morphine influence cardiovascular responses in trauma situations. Additionally, he analyzes the effects of lower body negative pressure on blood loss and tolerance, shedding light on vital organ perfusion.
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New Hypertension Thresholds Matter
- Hypertension is now defined as systolic ≥130 or diastolic ≥80 and earlier thresholds were higher. Lower blood pressure generally reduces risk, with values like 110/70 seen as much better than 120/80.
Hypertension Is Extremely Common
- Roughly half of U.S. adults meet current criteria for hypertension, and prevalence rises with age. In people over 65, up to four in five may have hypertension.
Watch For Harmful Low Blood Pressure
- Monitor symptoms of low blood pressure especially during orthostasis and treat causes like dehydration. Watch for syncope, dizziness, and falls when systolic approaches ~90 and diastolic ~50 mmHg.