Differences in the subjective well-being and symptoms of normotensives, borderline hypertensives and hypertensives

In this study, previously untreated subjects were randomly recruited from a blood pressure screening programme. After repeated measurement of blood pressure levels, the subjects were divided into three major groups: normotensives (n = 95), borderline hypertensives (n = 69) and hypertensives (n = 30). Three self-administered standardized questionnaires were used to measure different aspects of subjective well-being and symptoms: the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP), the Subjective Symptoms Assessment Profile (SSAP) and the Minor Symptoms Evaluation Profile (MSEP). The results indicate gradual differences between the three groups, the most pronounced symptoms being seen among the hypertensives. Statistically significant differences were found for cardiac and gastrointestinal symptoms as well as for emotional reactions, home life, social life, sex life and sleep. The differences in well-being and subjective symptoms noted between the groups are important in the evaluation of new antihypertensive agents. Self-administered questionnaires of the type used in this study could also be valuable in identifying symptoms and disturbances in subjective well-being related to the antihypertensive medication per se.