A new treatment option for high blood pressure, known as renal denervation, is offering hope to patients who have struggled to control their hypertension through traditional methods. This innovative procedure targets overactive renal nerves by zapping them with ultrasound or radiofrequency energy, disrupting their signals and helping to regulate blood pressure.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects approximately half of U.S. adults and is a significant risk factor for various serious health conditions, including heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure. Many individuals may not be aware they have high blood pressure until it has already caused damage.
Monitoring blood pressure is crucial, with normal readings falling below 120 over 80. Regular screenings at pharmacies or using at-home monitors can help individuals track their blood pressure levels. Lifestyle changes, such as weight management, exercise, and a healthy diet, are recommended as initial steps in managing hypertension.
For patients with treatment-resistant hypertension, like Michael Garrity, who underwent renal denervation, traditional medications may not be sufficient. Despite taking multiple drugs and following a strict regimen, some individuals struggle to lower their blood pressure to healthy levels.
Renal denervation involves threading a catheter through blood vessels to reach the kidneys and delivering targeted energy to disrupt overactive nerves. While not a cure, this procedure has shown promising results, with an average 8 to 10-point drop in blood pressure observed in studies.
Although renal denervation is not suitable for all patients and further research is needed to assess its long-term effects, it represents a potential breakthrough in the treatment of high blood pressure. Careful consideration and discussions between patients and healthcare providers are essential in determining the suitability of this procedure for individual cases.
As medical advancements continue to evolve, innovative treatments like renal denervation offer new hope for individuals struggling to manage their blood pressure effectively.
