High Blood Pressure Medications

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) is a common health condition that affects more than 100 million Americans. It’s a symptomless “silent killer” that can cause serious, life-threatening complications if it goes untreated.

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries and vessels. Your blood pressure is written as two numbers, the first number is your systolic pressure (the pressure when your heart pumps blood into your body), and the second number is your diastolic pressure (the pressure when your blood vessels relax). It’s important to know your blood pressure because it can help detect and prevent problems with your heart, kidneys, eyes, brain and other organs.

The most common causes of high blood pressure are diet, exercise and being overweight. High blood pressure can also develop due to other health conditions or pregnancy.

People with a family history of hypertension are more likely to have the condition, especially those who are over age 55 and older. Race and socioeconomic status are also risk factors. If you’re pregnant with your first child, you’re at increased risk for preeclampsia, which is when high blood pressure develops in late pregnancy and can lead to serious complications for both you and the baby.

If changes in your lifestyle aren’t enough to bring your blood pressure down to a healthy level, your doctor may prescribe medicine to treat it. Several types of medicines are used to treat high blood pressure, and your doctor will decide which one is right for you. Medications are often long-lasting and must be taken regularly to have the greatest benefit. Your doctor may recommend combination medicines or once-a-day medications to decrease the burden of taking multiple drugs and to increase adherence.

Generally, the first medicine your doctor will prescribe is diuretics, which help your kidneys remove sodium (salt) from your body, so your blood vessels and organs don’t have to hold as much water. Your doctor may also prescribe ACE inhibitors, which work in your body to reduce blood pressure by decreasing the production of angiotensin II, a chemical that narrows blood vessels. Finally, your doctor may prescribe beta-blockers, which work in your heart to make your blood flow more slowly and reduce your blood pressure.

If your high blood pressure is due to another health condition or a medication side effect, your doctor will try to treat the underlying problem. This might include adjusting your medication, dosage or drug combination, or getting a referral to a specialist.

High blood pressure is a lifelong illness that requires ongoing care from your healthcare provider. By following the advice in this booklet and attending regular health screenings, you can keep your blood pressure under control and avoid serious complications.

Should you wish to discuss your condition with an experienced Australian trained Doctor or expert in this area. Please book in for an online and Telehealth consultation. Phenix Health is always available when you need us 24/7. Contact bookings@phenixhealth.com.au