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6 things you can do to stop your blood pressure medicines-

(MUST READ DISCLAIMER: Although I am a Doctor, I am NOT your doctor so you MUST consult your own doctor before making any changes to your medicines or exercise routine!- Thanks!)

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure is a condition in which the heart is forced to work harder than normal in order to pump blood throughout the body. High blood pressure is diagnosed by your doctor when 2 or more blood pressures taken more than 5 minutes apart are greater than 140/90. The 140 represents the systolic blood pressure while the 90 is called diastolic. Both numbers are measured in mm of mercury.

Systolic blood pressure is the amount of pressure needed to pump the blood throughout your arteries while the diastolic pressure is the pressure measured when the heart relaxes. The numbers are measured in mm (millimeters) of mercury as original blood pressures use liquid mercury as the standard. Today, many people have digital blood pressure monitors which provide accurate measurements, without mercury.

As a family doctor, I am frequently asked by patients how they can wean off of blood pressure medications. It should be understood that this should only be done under close supervision of your health care provider. A person who continually has elevated blood pressure above 140/90 substantially increased their risk for heart attack and stroke. If your doctor has recommended you take blood pressure medications, you should definitely do so until they recommend otherwise.

There are several things however you can do to help control your blood pressure. If these steps are followed, one may be able to quit taking their blood pressure medications. However, stopping these medications should only be done under supervision of your physician only. Some blood pressure medications need to be weaned slowly or a paradoxical increase in blood pressure may occur.

The following is a list of things you can do to help improve your blood pressure control.

1. Weight loss. Losing a little as 10 to 20 lbs can help decrease blood pressure by 10 to 20 mm/Hg.
2. Increase exercise and physical activity, consult with your physician prior to starting an exercise program.
3. Reduce stress in your life.
4. Consider yoga and other types of meditation which help relax the muscles
5. Stop drinking caffeine and energy drinks as these can increases your blood pressure.
6. Increase fruits and vegetables in your diet. Evidence shows that diets high in Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium can help control blood pressure.

Best of Luck!

Learn more about this author, Eric Madrid.
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