Hypertension guidelines released at the end of 2017 redefine high blood pressure as 130/80 mmHg or higher. Several aspects of the new guidelines are especially important for people living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Because RA poses higher risk of cardiovascular disease and people with RA are less likely to be diagnosed with hypertension even if symptomatic, they should heed the guidelines, said Christie Bartels, MD, MS, assistant professor, Rheumatology. 

"Research shows you can reduce your risk of stroke if you can get down to 130/80," said Dr. Bartels.

Keeping your primary care physician in the loop is important, emphasizes Dr. Bartels. "Patients may have gaps in preventive care. If three-quarters of their of visits are in a rheumatology clinic, the primary care physician might not be aware that levels have been elevated over time, and rheumatologists may not have blood pressure on their radar,” she said. 

And no news about blood pressure does not necessarily translate to good news. "If the nurse doesn’t tell you what your numbers are, ask. Don’t assume it’s normal; it’s not always the case. It’s important to be an empowered patient so you can follow up," said Dr. Bartels.

Resources: 

• "Rheumatoid Arthritis: What New Blood Pressure Guidelines Mean," Everyday Health, January 9, 2018