According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) 1 in 3 American adults have high blood pressure, which is close to 75million people. Unfortunately, only 54% of these individuals have their high blood pressure under control.
Each moment of each day your blood is carrying nutrients and oxygen throughout your body, and your blood pressure ensures that the right amount of blood is circulated to always keep your organs and tissues healthy. High blood pressure is often referred to as the “silent killer”, because most people do not even realize they have high blood pressure. Unfortunately, when your blood pressure is too high and untreated for too long it can cause severe damage to your eyes and kidneys and lead to heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death in America.
Your optimal blood pressure depends on your personal medical condition, so speak to your doctor about your target blood pressure range. The common blood pressure targets are:
- Under 150/100 mmHg – for anyone over 80 years of age
- Less than 140/90 mmHg – for anyone without kidney disease or diabetes
- Less than 130/80 mmHg– for anyone with kidney disease or diabetes
Lifestyle Changes to Help Reduce Blood Pressure
- Stop smoking
- Regular exercise
- Stress reduction
- Reduced salt intake
- Healthy diet
Along with lifestyle changes such as exercise and healthy eating, certain medications can help lower high blood pressure effectively. The type of medication and the dose depends on your blood pressure and other medical conditions you may have such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart failure, or if you have a history of stroke or heart attacks.
Different Types or Classes of Blood Pressure Medications
Beta-blockers (metoprolol, propranolol, atenolol, bisoprolol, nebivolol)
Beta-blockers help reduce the force at which your blood is pumping by reducing the strength and speed of your heartbeat, which results in a decrease in blood pressure.
Diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide)
Diuretics boost your body’s urine production, which in turn causes your body to lose both water and salt. The result is a lower volume of blood in your body which results in the lowering of your blood pressure.
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors (ramipril, lisinopril, enalapril, perindopril, fosinopril)
Your body produces a substance, called angiotensin II, that tightens blood vessels. This class of medication blocks the production of this substance, which results in the blood vessels in your body relaxing so the pressure inside decreases.
Calcium channel blockers (amlodipine, verapamil, diltiazem, nifedipine)
These medications decrease the strength and speed of your heartbeat by relaxing blood vessels around the heart, resulting in the blood pumping with less force and lowered blood pressure.
Angiotensin II receptor blockers (valsartan, losartan, candesartan, irbesartan)
These medications block the action of angiotensin II, a substance the body produces to cause the constriction of blood vessels. When the blood vessels relax the blood flows more freely and blood pressure is decreased.
Combination Prescription Medications for High Blood Pressure
It is not unusual for certain blood pressure medications to be combined for effectiveness. For example, Zestoretic ® is a combination of lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide. Speak to your doctor about what prescription medication is right for you.
If you have questions about blood pressure medication, your prescription or any other medication, our discreet and caring team at CanadaOnlineHealth will be happy to answer your questions. Simply phone us Toll Free at 1-800-399-DRUG (3784).
This article contains medical information provided to help you better understand this particular medical condition or process, and may contain information about medication often used as part of a treatment plan prescribed by a doctor. It is not intended to be used as either a diagnosis or recommendation for treatment of your particular medical situation. If you are unwell, concerned about your physical or mental state, or are experiencing symptoms you should speak with your doctor or primary health care provider. If you are in medical distress please contact emergency services (such as 911).