Patterns of blood pressure in a group of Sri Lankan patients with acute stroke

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Both low and high blood pressures (BP) in acute phase of stroke are associated independently with poor outcome. Differences in BP patterns in acute stroke are reported in different populations, but data from developing countries are limited. We sought to describe patterns of BP in Sri Lankan patients with acute stroke. METHODS: Consecutive patients admitted to Colombo North Teaching Hospital within 7 days of stroke onset were screened for participation in an international multicentre triai on BP control in acute stroke. BP was measured with Ornron 705CP automated device. RESULTS: Among study subjects (n=596), 61.2% were males. Mean age [SD] was 64.3[12.6] years. 23% were studied within 24 hours from symptom onset, and 72.5% within 72 hours. 60.6% had pre-existing hypertension; 59.8% of them were on regular treatment. Mean [SD; range] systolic (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBF) were 148.7[28.7; 88-248] mmHg and 83.6[14.9; 46-137] mmHg, respectively. SBP was 140-159mmHg m 27.4% and >160mmHg in 30.2%. No significant difference was noted in mean SBP and DBF with time from stroke onset. Mean SBP and DBF were respectively ISmmHg (pO.OOl) and 6mmHg (pO.OOl) higher among those with pre-existing hypertension. Mean SBP and DBF were respectively 8.8mmHg (p=0.011) and 5.2mmHg (p=0.003) higher tn haemorrhagic compared to ischaemic stroke. CONCLUSIONS: A large proportion of our study population had elevated SBP in acute phase, but low BP was also noted. Mean BP values observed were lower than those described from other populations. BP was higher among those with pre-existing hypertension and haemorrhagic stroke.