by Rene Michael Browne

Created on: March 06, 2010   Last Updated: September 25, 2010

High blood pressure or hypertension is a common ailment affecting one  in three Americans every year. It is one of the most dangerous illnesses, referred to as “the silent killer”. There are no symptoms or warning signs. Many people are unaware for years they at risk for a heart attack, stroke or death. The cause of the disease can vary from individual to individual based on different risk factors such as smoking, eating habits, weight or family history.  Despite advancements in medical science, the recommended treatment options for hypertension have remained the same for years.

Quit Smoking

Physicians’ try to encourage patients diagnosed with high blood pressure is to quit smoking immediately. It is an uncomfortable task for physicians, constantly asking “Have you quit smoking yet?” Smokers don’t relate cigarette smoking with high blood pressure only with lung cancer. The truth is nicotine actually causes high blood pressure by constricting the blood vessels and making the heart beat faster. If not treated properly, lung cancer or tumors in the lung can develop due to lack of proper blood flow. Individuals with mild hypertension who quit smoking may not need any other treatment option. Others may still need medication and lifestyle changes to improve their condition.

Medication

Medication is often recommended when a person’s blood pressure is 150/90 or higher. Medicines developed to treat high blood pressure called anti-hypertensive drugs work quicker than other treatments options. Several different types of anti-hypertensive drugs are available from diuretics , water pills and blood vessel dilators which expand the blood vessels so blood can flow more effectively.  What brand and dosage will depend on your blood pressure levels and any preexisting illnesses?  It may be necessary to try different brands and dosages before finding the right one which keeps the blood pressure under control.

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A Heart Healthy Diet

Eating a heart healthy diet is another treatment for high blood pressure. This specific diet also referred to as the DASH diet restricts sodium and requires specific foods which help to lower blood pressure. Salt or sodium is limited to 1500 mg a day. Higher amounts increase blood pressure levels causing the arteries to narrow. This makes it difficult for blood to flow to the heart and makes blood pressure rise. To help the body deal with salt, it is extremely important to get enough potassium

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