Pulmonary Function Tests in Hypertension

Background: Many studies have shown that Hypertension is a chronic disease affecting many organs in the body. However, very few studies have been done to analyze the association between lung function and hypertension. It must be considered that antihypertensive treatment might have an effect on lung function, too. With this background the study was undertaken. Objectives: To assess and compare the pulmonary function tests (PFTs) in controlled hypertensive patients and; age and gender matched normal healthy controls. Materials & Methods:Sample size of 30 for both the groups i.e. normal control and controlled hypertensives( on beta blockers ) were selected. Spirometry was performed by RMS Helios Spirometer. Recording of parametersFVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC%, PEFR, FEF25, FEF50, FEF75, FEF25-75, FEF0.2-1.2 was done in both the groups. These parameters were compared in these groups by applying unpaired t test. Results: The mean values of all the PFT parameters were statistically significantly lesser than those in the hypertensive patients. 74% of the patients had obstructive pattern of PFTs, while 13% of patients were having restrictive pattern. 13% of patients were having normal PFTs pattern. Conclusion: Hypertension along with Beta blockers can have deleterious effects on PFTs. These patients are more prone to Obstructive lung disease. All the patients with hypertension, especially those on beta blockers should be screened by Spirometry for early detection of pulmonary complications.