21-day lifestyle change plan for those recently diagnosed with hypertension 

Research has shown that it takes an average of 21 days to form a new habit. This can also vary based on the level of commitment and motivation. Therefore, a 21-day plan can be a good starting point to begin establishing healthier lifestyle habits. Week 1 (Days 1-7) Monitor your blood pressure daily using a home blood pressure monitor to track progress. You can download and print a blood pressure log by clicking here.   Reduce sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) per day.  Add 1 additional fruit and 1 additional vegetable you like to your daily diet.  Increase…
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Medications for high blood pressure

ACE inhibitors Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) Calcium channel blockers Diuretics Beta blockers Renin inhibitors There are several categories of medications used to treat high blood pressure. Each works differently to lower blood pressure and has its own advantages and potential side effects. ACE inhibitors These medications block the production of angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels and raises blood pressure. ACE inhibitors can help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, leading to lower blood pressure. Common examples include lisinopril, enalapril, and ramipril. Some common side effects of ACE inhibitors include: Dry cough: About 10-20% of patients…
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Treatment options for high blood pressure

It is important to manage hypertension through various treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of both. In order to determine the best treatment option, it is important to distinguish between primary and secondary hypertension as the treatment approach may differ based on the underlying cause.Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is the most common form of high blood pressure, accounting for about 90-95% of cases. Treatment for primary hypertension usually involves lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and reducing stress. Medications may also be…
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What is hypertension?

Health risks Daily pattern & seasonality Ideal blood pressure level by age Causes of high blood pressure Nutritional deficiencies Extra cautious nutritional factors What is high blood pressure? High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a medical condition in which the pressure of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is usually expressed as two numbers. The first, or higher, number is the systolic pressure which is the pressure created when the heart pumps blood around the body. The second, or lower, number is…
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