I’m sure you’ve heard of high blood pressure, or hypertension, right? However, I want to paint a clearer picture about why it’s known as the ‘silent killer’. I also want to give you information about the best treatments for high blood pressure. 
Best Treatments for High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure often walks hand-in-hand with no vivid symptoms, yet it may lead to severe health problems like heart disease and stroke. That said, it is quintessential to know the best treatments for high blood pressure.
What Exactly is High Blood Pressure?
It’s when the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. This causes damage over time. In fact, you won’t feel until it’s serious. You This is why being vigilant about this condition is crucial for your health.
Reading Blood Pressure Numbers
Now, let’s talk numbers for a moment. High blood pressure isn’t a rare problem lurking in the shadows. Truth be told, it’s widespread and affects millions globally. The importance of managing it effectively is crucial.
Unfortunately, it has its place in health issues such as:
- Heart attacks
- Kidney failure
- Vision loss
Knowing is Half the Battle
Regular blood pressure checks helps catch high blood pressure early. From there, you begin working to control it, which often starts with lifestyle changes. And this leads us to the next vital part of your journey to good health. 
Lifestyle Changes
Foundation of Blood Pressure Management
If you’re facing high blood pressure, you’ll want to find out about the cornerstone of managing it—lifestyle changes. These adjustments are the bedrock. They will significantly lower your blood pressure.
Adjustments are Effective as Medications
In fact, adjustments are oftentimes as effective as medication. Let’s explore how to create a solid foundation for blood pressure management through everyday choices.
Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH)
First up, there’s the DASH diet—short for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. This isn’t just about cutting back on salt, though. The DASH diet is also about eating nutrient-rich foods that lower blood pressure. Eating foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins seals the deal. 
Adjustments Lower Blood Pressure Naturally
I’m here to help you understand how to make these changes in a way that’s sustainable and even enjoyable. You’ll be surprised what this adjustment will do for you. It helped me lower my blood pressure (BP) and it keeps the blood pressure numbers in tact.
My Struggles With High Blood Pressure
Just a few years ago, my pressure zoomed up so high, it landed me in the ER; not once but several times over the years. Thanks to my doctor and nutritionist, I was able to control my blood pressure.
The game-changer for me was lowering my sodium intake. Since childhood, Lays potatochips and soda was my favorite go-to whenever I had some change. I craved the crunch and saltiness.
Nowadays, I still get the crunch without the saltiness (Lay’s Baked Potato Chips) and still enjoy my snacks. However, since transitioning to a healthier lifestyle, I am getting a whole lot more nourishment to my body and I don’t have the cravings anymore, ironically. 
Incorporating a Healthier Lifestyle
If you want to learn more about incorporationg a healthier lifestyle, read some of my previous blogs on the Engine 2 diet plan or the 9 principals of the Blue Zone lifestyle.
However, I had previously controlled my BP with medication. At first, I was put on Lisinopril and then later on Losartan. However, if you are on a dieretic, your physician will probably prescribe something other than these meds. At any rate, a healthy diet will attribute to your overall health and wellness.
Consult With Your Primary Care Provider
The main thing to remember is to always consult with your doctor before starting any new diet or exercise program. Every person is unique, especially when it comes to blood pressure. Extremely high or extremely low is very serious.
In 2021, after my hip surgery, I started to take charge of my life. Since that time, I make every effort to live a healthier happier lifestyle. 
For starters adjust your lifestyle to include all the following:
- Get a moderate amount of daily physical activity
- Drinks lots of water (8-12 glasses per day
- Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep (most of the time)
- Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats
- Add in a handful of nuts (pistachio, cashew, walnuts, etc.)
- Avoid stressful environments
- Build healthy relationships
Maintaining A Healthy Weight
As a result, I have not only maintained a good weight, I also have maintained a normal blood pressure diring the last 3 years, knock on wood. Once you learn the ropes about health and nutrition, it becomes second nature after a while. 
150 Minutes Weekly Exercise
Another powerful tool is exercise. I’m talking about getting into a routine that includes moderate activities like walking, cycling, or swimming. You don’t need to be an athlete—the aim is to be consistent, building up to at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. 
Reducing weight, if you’re overweight, has a profound effect on lowering blood pressure. Even a modest weight loss helps your blood vessels do a better job of expanding and contracting. Also, losing weight makes it easier for your heart to pump blood.
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
Let’s not forget alcohol and smoking. Limiting alcohol to moderate levels and quitting smoking are crucial steps. Smoking damages your blood vessels and it raises your blood pressure. In addition, excessive drinking undos the benefits of your dietary efforts.
Last Resort is Medication
Incorporating these lifestyle changes is a significant stride towards controlling your high blood pressure. But sometimes, they aren’t enough on their own. That’s when medications come into play, and I’ll guide you through that in the next section.
Medications
When Lifestyle Changes Aren’t Enough
Sometimes, no matter how strict you are with your diet and how consistent your exercise routine, your blood pressure might stubbornly hover above normal ranges. That’s where medications come in.
Medications play a pivotal role in reining in those numbers. In fact, there are various drug classes physicians typically prescribe for hypertension. However, there’s a wide selection. No worries, doctors will always tailor the treatment to your unique situation.
Diverse Medication for High Blood Pressure
Medications that work for one person, may not work for another person. Your primary healghcare provider knows what’s best for your specific need. Each has a specific way of working in your body to lower your blood pressure.
Here are a few types of high blood pressure medications:
- Diuretics
- ACE inhibitors
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Calcium channel blockers
- Beta-blockers.
Combination Therapy
Sometimes, a combination of these is what does the trick. This is what doctors often call combination therapy. It’s not about just throwing pills at the problem. It’s about finding the right balance that works for you. 
Be Aware of the Side Effects
Now, while these meds do wonders for your blood pressure, they’re not free of side effects.
Here a few examples of what you might experience:
- Leg cramps
- Dizziness
- Changes in urination patterns
In my opinion, the best way to manage this is to stay in close communication with your healthcare provider. They’ll help adjust dosages or switch medications if side effects become too bothersome.
Don’t Skip Doses
And let me talk about adherence for a moment—because it’s crucial. Skipping doses or halting your medication without consulting your doctor has serious consequences.
Your blood pressure could skyrocket, raising your risk of a stroke or heart attack. However, don’t worry too much if you miss a dose. Just take it as soon as you remember and get back on track. No worries, you have the option to self-monitor your BP at home. The monitors are inexpensive nowadays.
Alternative Therapies and Home Remedies
Next, I’ll shed some light on alternative therapies and home remedies. You might find these tempting to explore in managing high blood pressure. However, this isn’t just about going against conventional medicine. It’s more about complementing it wisely.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
There’s a growing interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for hypertension. Things like acupuncture, biofeedback, or even supplements like garlic and fish oil. I’ve encountered quite a few studies suggesting these could have positive effects on blood pressure. 
Here a few alternations on the market:
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
- Garlic and Fish Oil supplements
There are also some evidence-based home remedies that many consider safe bets.
For example:
- Increasing your potassium intake with bananas or sweet potatoes
- The nitric oxide in beet juice helps relax blood vessels
Mind and Body Practices
Mind and body practices are another promising strategy I like to leverage. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, or Tai Chi helps reduce stress, which in turn may lower blood pressure. It’s fascinating how much your state of mind influences your body. 
Consult With Your Physician
That said, it’s crucial to not rely solely on these approaches. And, just don’t focus too much on perfection. If you’re thinking of adding any CAM modalities to your treatment plan, it’s a smart move to consult with your healthcare provider first. They’ll guide you on how to safely incorporate these into your regimen without causing any harm.
Monitoring and Maintaining Your Treatment Plan
Now, onto something just as essential: how do you keep track of all this and maintain your blood pressure within safe limits over the long term? That’s where the beauty of combining conventional and alternative treatments really shines through. Let’s move on to staying on track with monitoring and maintaining your treatment plan.
Staying on Track
Consistency is Key
Want to know a secret? Consistency is your best friend when it comes to controlling high blood pressure. It’s not just about starting treatment, though. It’s about staying the course. 
Home Blood Pressure Monitors
Now, you’re going to find out about using home blood pressure monitors. These tools are fantastic because they give you insight into your health right from the comfort of your own home.
Keeping a log helps you notice trends and provide essential information to your healthcare provider as well.
Regular Check-Ups are Crucial
They aren’t just for when you’re feeling unwell. They’re a proactive way to manage your condition. Your doctor will review your progress or make necessary adjustments to your medications. He/she may also tweak your lifestyle plan. This isn’t just about medication; it’s about holistic care. 
Your Treatment Plan is Flexible
And let’s talk about flexibility. Your treatment plan isn’t set in stone. As your life changes, your treatment may need to as well. Don’t worry too much about this. It’s normal and necessary. You can always adjust your approach down the road.
Connect With Community Resources
One last thing to keep in mind: Choose something that aligns with you when it comes to support. Whether it’s a community support group or educational resources, connecting with others makes a big difference in your journey.
Level Up and Take Charge of Your Health
Now, I really hope that you feel equipped to take charge of your health. Managing high blood pressure looks a bit different for everyone. At the end of the day it’s always about making lifelong commitments to your well-being.
Thanks for sticking with me and remember I’m here to help you with any more questions or guidance you seek on your journey to a happier healthier lifestyle.
Founder, Rachele
(web) mybluegenes.com
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