Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is a type of high blood pressure where the systolic blood pressure is 130 mm Hg or higher, and the diastolic blood pressure is less than 80 mm Hg. According to the Cleveland Clinic, ISH is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, death, and kidney failure. It is the most common type of high blood pressure in people age 70 or older, and older people are more likely to have it because systolic blood pressure usually goes up as you age.

If left untreated, ISH can damage organs just like other types of untreated hypertension can. It can increase the risk of strokes, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and other health conditions. Researchers have found that treating ISH can decrease peoples risk of heart-related events, stroke, and death by as much as 30% .

The recommended goal for systolic pressure for adults younger than age 65 who have a 10% or higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease is less than 130 mm Hg. For healthy adults who are age 65 or older, the recommended treatment goal for systolic pressure is also less than 130 mm Hg.

Controlling ISH to prevent health problems requires medication, and lifestyle changes can also help improve the systolic blood pressure reading. If you have ISH, it is important to take care of yourself and follow your healthcare providers recommendations for treatment and follow-up appointments.

In summary, ISH is a type of high blood pressure where the systolic blood pressure is 130 mm Hg or higher, and the diastolic blood pressure is less than 80 mm Hg. It is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, death, and kidney failure, and can increase the risk of strokes, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and other health conditions. Treating ISH can decrease the risk of heart-related events, stroke, and death, and controlling it requires medication and lifestyle changes.