[Hypertension in obese patients: Pathophysiology and management]

Abstract

Obesity is a major risk factor for hypertension. Adipose tissue releases numerous substances that act on the pathophysiologic mechanisms of blood pressure. Management of obese patients with high blood pressure includes weight loss efforts, but antihypertensive treatment is most often necessary. Beta-blockers, alone or with thiazide diuretics, increase the risk of diabetes in hypertensive patients. Treatment against hypertension must include a renin-angiotensin system blocker, with a calcium channel blocker or a thiazide diuretic, if necessary.