Chronic Lower Leg Heating for the Treatment of Hypertension in Older Women

PROJECT NARRATIVE Uncontrolled hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease - the leading cause of death in the United States. Currently, over half of women older than 65 with hypertension have uncontrolled blood pressure despite being on standard drug treatment. Through this study, we aim to determine whether the combination of home-based lower leg heat therapy and a blood pressure medication is an effective treatment option for older hypertensive women; in addition, we will investigate the effects of heat therapy on neural and vascular health in these patients.