Understanding Resistant Hypertension

Resistant hypertension is defined as hypertension that persists despite treatment with three different antihypertensive medications. Guidelines differ internationally, with European criteria requiring a blood pressure over 140/90 mmHg, while American guidelines set the threshold at 130/80 mmHg. Notably, the inclusion of patients requiring four medications for control can suggest resistant hypertension in the American guidelines, expanding the definition's scope. Accurately identifying this condition is crucial, as it correlates significantly with increased risks of hypertension-mediated organ damage and cardiovascular events.