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How do I Reduce Blood Pressure?

K T Solis
K T Solis

A person has high blood pressure when blood travels through the arteries at a higher pressure than what is considered normal. People with high blood pressure are at a greater risk for strokes, heart attacks, heart disease, and kidney failure. For this reason, it's important to lower high blood pressure in order to avoid serious health problems. High blood pressure patients can effectively reduce their blood pressure through several ways.

Patients who smoke tobacco can lower their high blood pressure if they quit smoking. Nicotine, which is found in tobacco products, causes blood vessels to narrow and the heart to beat faster. This, in turn, elevates a person's blood pressure. Quitting the smoking habit can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks and heart disease.

When blood vessels narrow, it can raise blood pressure.
When blood vessels narrow, it can raise blood pressure.

Some people experience high blood pressure when they consume too much sodium or salt in their diet. High blood pressure patients should consume no more than 0.1 ounces (2,400 mg) of sodium on a daily basis. The patient's doctor may request that he or she consumes even less amounts of salt.

Losing weight also helps patients reduce blood pressure. A logical way to lose weight is to engage in more physical activity. Committing to regular exercise can help people lose weight, even if the pounds come off slowly. In short, the act of exercising reduces blood pressure and helps people to ward off chronic health problems involving the heart.

Stopping smoking can help lower blood pressure.
Stopping smoking can help lower blood pressure.

Stress can negatively affect a person's blood pressure, but by seeking ways to relieve tension, a patient can reduce blood pressure. Practicing relaxation techniques, taking time to enjoy favorite hobbies, or consulting with a physician can help patients reduce stress in their lives and lower their blood pressure.

The consumption of alcohol raises blood pressure in some people. By limiting alcohol intake to about one or two drinks each day, a high blood pressure patient can lower blood pressure. If a patient experiences higher blood pressure when drinking alcoholic beverages, it may be wise to avoid drinking alcohol.

A doctor may prescribe blood pressure medication to control a patient's blood pressure.
A doctor may prescribe blood pressure medication to control a patient's blood pressure.

Doctors can prescribe medication that may reduce blood pressure in some patients. Such medicines are called antihypertensive medicines and are designed to reduce blood pressure levels. Often, these particular medicines must be taken for the rest of a patient's life.

It is important that the high blood pressure patient continues taking the medication unless the doctor tells the patient to stop. If a patient stops taking the medication without the doctor's permission, she could suffer a stroke or heart attack. As with all medications, antihypertensive medicines may cause unpleasant side effects. Consult with a doctor to weigh the pros and cons of particular forms of high blood pressure medication.

Discussion Comments

cinder

Lowering your salt intake makes a HUGE difference! You'd be amazed how much salt you eat everyday without realizing it!

Switch to garlic powder..not the salt. Look for salt free seasoning blends, Mrs Dash makes a number of different blends.

When you buy soup, don't always trust the eye-catching-better-for-you label! I can't remember what brand it was but after reading the nutritional panel on both the Low Sodium and the Healthy Heart (whatever it was called), the "Low Sodium" version actually had MORE salt than the "Healthy Heart" version.

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    • When blood vessels narrow, it can raise blood pressure.
      By: Balint Radu
      When blood vessels narrow, it can raise blood pressure.
    • Stopping smoking can help lower blood pressure.
      By: Nomad_Soul
      Stopping smoking can help lower blood pressure.
    • A doctor may prescribe blood pressure medication to control a patient's blood pressure.
      By: guysagne
      A doctor may prescribe blood pressure medication to control a patient's blood pressure.
    • High blood pressure can cause numerous health problems.
      By: Andrei Tsalko
      High blood pressure can cause numerous health problems.
    • Spending time daily with a loving pet may help reduce blood pressure, lower stress levels, and bring a sense of calm.
      By: Budimir Jevtic
      Spending time daily with a loving pet may help reduce blood pressure, lower stress levels, and bring a sense of calm.
    • A doctor can offer consultation on ways to reduce blood pressure.
      By: Shakzu
      A doctor can offer consultation on ways to reduce blood pressure.
    • Avoiding salty snacks can help to reduce blood pressure.
      By: etiennevoss
      Avoiding salty snacks can help to reduce blood pressure.