Linear and non-linear analyses of autonomic modulation in uncontrolled and controlled elderly resistant hypertensives.

Resistant hypertension (RHT) is associated with worse outcomes among patients, and sympathetic overactivity is a challenge in treating this clinical condition. Here, we evaluated the autonomic modulation (by linear and non-linear analyses), central blood pressure, and pulse wave velocity in controlled and uncontrolled RHT patients, as well as those in use of beta-blockers. We observed that uncontrolled RHT patients display, in addition to an increase in peripheral blood pressure, presented higher central blood pressure values concerning controlled RHT. Furthermore, despite the use of beta-blockers, both patients in the RHT + beta-blockers and uncontrolled RHT groups had negative changes in autonomic balance as compared with controlled RHT. These results reinforce the importance of autonomic nervous system interventions in managing arterial hypertension.