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Slovenska pediatrija 2012; 19: 286-295

https://doi.org/

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Review article

ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION IN ATHLETES

R. Rus
Klinični oddelek za nefrologijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni Klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

B. Kosmač
Služba za kardiologijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni Klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

A. Meglič
Klinični oddelek za nefrologijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni Klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

G. Novljan
Klinični oddelek za nefrologijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

M. Kopač
Klinični oddelek za nefrologijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni Klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

N. Battelino
Klinični oddelek za otroško nefrologijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

T. Kersnik Levart
Klinični oddelek za nefrologijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Abstract

Regular physical activity lowers blood pressure. However, at the same time, arterial hypertension is one of the most common abnormalities found in athletes. Therefore, regular measurements of blood pressure should be performed in this population. Since white coat hypertension is one of the most common reasons for high blood pressure in athletes, blood pressure should also be measured at home. Correct measurement of blood pressure with a cuff of appropriate width is also very important in athletes. When arterial hypertension is confirmed, a proper history should be taken. Abuse of substances that could cause arterial hypertension should be excluded. A thorough clinical examination and additional tests should be performed to assess injury to target organs, other cardiovascular risk factors and accompanying illnesses and to establish the possible cause of arterial hypertension.Treatment of arterial hypertension includes non-pharmacological and pharmacological management. The most appropriate medications for the management of arterial hypertension are ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB).

Key words: arterial hypertension, athletes, management.