Essential Hypertension Treatments

Lifestyle Changes

• Maintain a healthy weight .
• Begin a safe exercise program with the advice of your doctor.
• If you smoke, quit .
• Eat a healthful diet , one that is low-fat, low-salt, and rich in fiber , fruits, and vegetables. Your doctor may recommend the DASH diet , which is designed to reduce blood pressure.
• Drink alcohol in moderation (no more than two drinks per day for men, one drink per day for women).
• Manage stress .

Medications

These include:

• Diuretics
• Beta blockers
• Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors)
• Calcium channel blockers
• Angiotensin receptor blockers
• Aldosterone blockers
• Alpha blockers
• Alpha-beta blockers
• Nervous system inhibitors
• Vasodilators

Note: Untreated high blood pressure can lead to:

• Heart disease
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Kidney damage

If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, follow your doctor's instructions .