[Treatment of hypertension--the value of non-drug measures].
METHODS
To investigate the usefulness of non-pharmacological measures in the treatment of essential hypertension, 91 subjects comprising patients attending a physical-medical department and the inhabitants of an old people's home, were asked to complete a questionnaire.


RESULTS
Almost all patients were receiving drug therapy (n = 89); in two-thirds treatment had been initiated when the diagnosis was first established. Although two-thirds were well informed about non-pharmacological measures (physical exercise, sodium restricted diet, reduced caloric intake, changes in dietary habits), more than one-half of the patients had neither been informed about, nor instructed in the use of, any of these alternatives by their general practitioners. Some 40% were aware of the benefit of relaxation techniques, but only one in six practiced them.


CONCLUSIONS
Although this study revealed a high level of knowledge of non-pharmacological anti-hypertensive therapy, the care-providing doctors clearly attach more importance to prescribing drugs. In view of the potential value of alternative forms of treatment, greater consideration of this point by the physician would be desirable.
Klinik für Physikalische Medizin und Rehabilitation, Universität Wien.
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T
Saradeth
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Kaynar
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KL
Resch
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Ernst
D000368:Aged; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005260:Female; D006707:Homes for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000379:methods*
D000959:Antihypertensive Agents
Hypertoniebehandlung--Stellenwert nichtmedikamentöser Massnahmen.