Hypertension Treatment

Hypertension treatment often begins with lifestyle changes. Losing weight, exercising more, and cutting back on salt are all aspects of a hypertension treatment plan. Hypertension treatment may also include dietary changes and drinking less alcohol. While these lifestyle changes may be enough for some people, others with high blood pressure may require medications such as diuretics for hypertension treatment.

 

Hypertension Treatment: An Introduction

Hypertension (also known as high blood pressure) is all too common in the United States. About 65 million American adults have hypertension. Hypertension treatment includes a combination of lifestyle changes and, in many cases, hypertension medication. Together, these can help control hypertension for many people and get them closer to a normal blood pressure. By getting hypertension under control, people can lower their chances for developing:
 

Lifestyle Changes as Part of Hypetension Treatment

Lifestyle changes that may play a part in hypertension treatment include:
 
 
  • Being more physically active (walking 30 minutes each day can help)
  • Following a healthy eating plan that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods (see DASH Diet)
  • Losing weight (if you're overweight, even losing 10 pounds can help)
  • Eating foods with less salt and sodium
  • Drinking alcoholic beverages in moderation.

 

(Hypertension Treatment Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD