Effect of physical activity on vascular reactivity in hypertensive elderly

Abstract

Introduction: The growth of the elderly population has increased the incidence of chronic non communicable diseases, such as hypertension. Objective: To verify the effect of physical activity on vascular reactivity in hypertensive elderly women. Methods: Data were collected from October to November 2016. A program of strength training and aerobic exercises was carried out during 4 weeks, with duration of 40 minutes. After the exercises, the Cold Pressor Test (CPT) was performed, then blood pressure and heart rate were measured immediately after the stimulus and at 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes thereafter. Results: The results showed that both interventions are effective for a lower vascular reactivity response of the elderly, when submitted to stress. Conclusion: It is concluded that the interventions are effective as a non-pharmacological treatment for hypertension, in addition to promoting a significant decrease in AP (arterial pressure) after Cold Pressor Test.