Heat Therapy for High Blood Pressure
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how heat therapy might help lower blood pressure in older women with hypertension. Participants will soak their lower legs in warm water several times a week to determine if it controls blood pressure more effectively than medication alone. The trial also aims to assess whether this method improves blood vessel health. Women aged 65-85 with high blood pressure who can communicate in English and manage this home-based treatment may be suitable candidates.
As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to investigate a potentially innovative treatment method for managing high blood pressure.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop your current medications. However, all participants will receive a fixed dose of chlorthalidone, a diuretic, as part of the study. If you are on three or more antihypertensive agents, you are not eligible for the trial.
What prior data suggests that this heat therapy is safe for older women with hypertension?
Research has shown that heat therapy can safely help lower blood pressure. Studies have found that repeated exposure to heat can significantly reduce blood pressure. For instance, one study discovered that heat therapy lowered daytime systolic blood pressure (the pressure when the heart beats) by about 5 mmHg. Other research supports this, indicating that heat therapy applied to the legs can lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function in older adults.
These findings suggest that heat therapy is generally well-tolerated, with no major reports of serious side effects. It's important to note that these studies focused on older adults, who often have more health issues. This increases confidence in the safety of heat therapy for this group. However, always talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike typical treatments for high blood pressure, which often involve medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics, this approach uses lower leg heat therapy. This technique immerses the legs up to the knees in warm water, which may improve blood circulation and help lower blood pressure naturally. Researchers are excited because this non-invasive method could offer a drug-free option with fewer side effects, providing an alternative for those who prefer or need to avoid medication.
What evidence suggests that lower leg heat therapy is effective for high blood pressure?
This trial will compare the effects of lower leg heat therapy with a control treatment. Research has shown that warming the lower legs can help lower blood pressure. One study found that using heat therapy at home for eight weeks reduced the systolic blood pressure and improved blood vessel function. Another study showed that warming the legs increases blood flow and lowers overall blood pressure. By boosting blood flow, heat therapy may help the body control blood pressure more effectively. This method looks promising, especially for older women who need more than just medication to manage their blood pressure.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Qi Fu, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Steven Romero, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of North Texas Health Science Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for older women aged 65-85 with high blood pressure, who speak English and can perform home-based heat therapy. It's not suitable for those with severe hypertension, cardiopulmonary disease, kidney disease, diabetes, substance abuse history (except tobacco), current smokers, or those on hormone replacement therapy.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Wash-out
Patients gradually stop taking their own antihypertensive medications and undergo 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring
Run-in
Patients are treated with a fixed dose of chlorthalidone and monitored for BP and drug tolerability
Treatment
Participants receive lower leg heat therapy or control treatment with chlorthalidone
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Lower leg heat therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Lead Sponsor