Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed in two numbers, with the top number (systolic pressure) being the pressure when the heart beats and the bottom number (diastolic pressure) being the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.
Normal blood pressure is usually considered to be less than 120/80 mmHg, while hypertension is generally defined as having a blood pressure reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher on two or more separate occasions. Hypertension is a common condition that can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems if left untreated.
Hypertension medication, also known as antihypertensive medication, is a type of medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). There are several types of hypertension medication, which work in different ways to lower blood pressure. Some of the most commonly used hypertension medications include:
Diuretics
These medications increase urine production, which helps reduce the amount of fluid in the blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Examples include hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, and spironolactone.
ACE inhibitors
These medications block the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which helps relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure. Examples include enalapril, lisinopril, and ramipril.
ARBs
These medications block the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to narrow, which helps lower blood pressure. Examples include losartan, valsartan, and irbesartan.
Beta blockers
These medications block the effects of the hormone epinephrine (adrenaline), which helps slow down the heart rate and reduce blood pressure. Examples include metoprolol, atenolol, and propranolol.
Calcium channel blockers
These medications block the entry of calcium into the muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels, which helps relax the muscles and reduce blood pressure. Examples include amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil.
Renin inhibitors
These medications block the action of renin, an enzyme that helps regulate blood pressure. Examples include aliskiren.
The choice of medication will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of the high blood pressure, the presence of other health conditions, and the potential side effects of the medication. It is important to work with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate hypertension medication and dosage.
Home Remedies for Hypertension
While it’s important to follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan for hypertension, there are some home remedies that may help support your overall health and potentially lower blood pressure. Here are some examples:
Exercise regularly
Regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, can help improve heart health and reduce blood pressure.
Follow a healthy diet
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products can help reduce blood pressure.
Manage stress
Chronic stress can contribute to hypertension, so finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, can be helpful.
Maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of hypertension, so maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is important.
Reduce sodium intake
Consuming too much salt can raise blood pressure, so reducing sodium intake by limiting processed foods and adding less salt to meals can be beneficial.
Drink in moderation
Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to hypertension, so limiting alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men is recommended.
It’s important to note that these remedies may not replace prescribed medication, and you should always speak with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.