High blood pressure is defined as a blood pressure reading that is above 120/80 mm of mercury. Because high blood pressure brings a considerable number of health risks with it, maintaining a healthy level is crucial. Various factors are involved in managing blood pressure, and medical treatment is often a key element in protecting your health by lowering your blood pressure.
Treatment Goal
Medical blood pressure treatment is aimed at reducing your blood pressure to a healthy level with as few medications as possible, preferably using ones with no or minimal side effects. Often, a combination of medications is needed to produce the desired effect. The Mayo Clinic states that several medications used in smaller doses sometimes result in fewer side effects. Each person responds differently to medications, and your physician will work with you to find the most effective treatment for your situation.
Types of Medication
Blood pressure medications, or antihypertensives, are organized into categories based on their chemical structure. According to the American Heart Association, each category works on a different part of the body to help reduce blood pressure. Diuretics are commonly known as "water pills," and help the kidneys flush excess water from the body. Lasix is a common type of diuretic. Beta-blockers, such as Lopressor and Metoprolol, reduce the heart rate. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors help keep arteries open wide by blocking a hormone that constricts blood vessels. Lisinopril is a common ACE inhibitor. Amlodipine and other calcium channel blockers have a relaxing effect on muscle, resulting in a slower, less forceful heart rate. Like ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers open up the blood vessels.
Side Effects
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, some of the common side effects of antihypertensives involve headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, constipation or diarrhea, anxiety, weight problems, chest pain or palpitations, flu or cold like symptoms and skin rash. Seek medical attention if the symptoms become severe or are keeping you from taking your medicine. Initially, you may need to work closely with your health care team to create a medication schedule that is tailored to your body's needs.
Considerations
Although medications are highly effective in addressing high blood pressure, the Mayo Clinic stresses the importance of lifestyle changes that will support a healthy blood pressure level. These lifestyle adjustments include a healthy diet, regular exercise, reducing or eliminating your nicotine and alcohol intake and managing your stress.
Warnings
Be aware of potentially dangerous side effects from blood pressure medication, and know when to call your doctor or seek emergency medical attention. Take these medications exactly as directed by your doctor, and be consistent. Because antihypertensives can interact with other medications or dietary supplements such as herbs, be sure to inform your doctor of all other treatments you are using.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Choosing Blood Pressure Medications
- American Heart Association: Types of Blood Pressure Medications
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Types of Blood Pressure Medications
- American Academy of Family Physicians: High Blood Pressure Medications
- National Library of Medicine: Hypertension
