Ways to Control Your High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is called hypertension. If left untreated it can damage the heart muscle and coronary artery walls which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. That is why it is so important for people with issues with blood pressure to control it. There are many ways in which a person can control high blood pressure.

Medication
If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, your doctor may put you on blood pressure medicine. It is very important that you take your medication as indicated. It usually takes a month or two for your body to adjust to the medication. Never stop taking your medication without discussing it with your doctor first because stopping it on your own could lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Weight and Nutrition
You must watch your weight when you have issues with your blood trouble. Being overweight especially around the waist raises your chances for heart disease and raises your blood pressure. Eat more fruits and vegetables, decrease your salt intake, increase your potassium and calcium intake, and drink more water. Also stay away from caffeine because it can raise your blood pressure. Ask your doctor to see a nutritionist, a person who specializes in nutrition, if you want to learn how to eat heart healthy and lower your blood pressure.

Exercise
Some people are afraid to exercise when there are heart issues. However, some exercise is very good for controlling your blood pressure. Try walking at least 30 minutes a day to help lower your blood pressure. Discuss with your doctor what other exercises would be good for you. Lack of exercise can really raise your blood pressure and lead to bigger health problems.

Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol if you want to lower your blood pressure. Alcohol increases the risk of heart disease. Many heart medications advise not to have any alcohol because of the effects it can have on the medication. It will not work as well.

Stress
Easier said than done I am sure, but the reality is that stress raises your blood pressure. Try to avoid stress in your life as much as possible. Try to keep positive thoughts instead of negative ones. If there are stressful situations in your life, try to resolve them as quickly as possible. Learn new techniques to minimize stress and calm yourself like counting to ten when you are angry, drinking decaffeinated tea, and keeping negative people out of your life. Stress is not worth losing your life over so avoid stressful situations as much as possible.