It is estimated that approximately one third of all adults in the United States actually have high blood pressure. A significant percentage of people who have high blood pressure or hypertension do not actually realize that they have it. If left untreated high blood pressure can lead to cardio vascular disease, cardiac arrest, stroke, kidney failure and even death. Therefore the most important part of high blood pressure treatment is regular checkups administered by a health care professional. Unless a case of hypertension is diagnosed it is impossible to treat it. A person who consistently has a systolic pressure of more than one hundred and sixty and a diastolic pressure greater than one hundred definitely requires high blood pressure treatment if they are to avoid becoming dangerously ill.

High Blood Pressure Treatment Includes Prescription Medications

High blood pressure treatment often includes taking one or more prescription medications. One type of medication that is commonly prescribed as a part of high blood pressure treatment is the ACE inhibitor. These drugs work by expanding the vessels so that blood can flow more freely making the heart function more readily and efficiently. Angiotensin-2 receptor antagonists work in a similar way to ACE inhibitors. Diuretics, beta blockers and calcium channel blockers are other commonly prescribed high blood pressure treatments.

Unfortunately the prescription medications used to treat hypertension do have some potential side effects. For instance ACE inhibitors can cause a dry cough or a rash while the use of beta blockers can lead to fatigue and asthma like symptoms. Before taking any of these prescription high blood pressure treatments it is a good idea to ensure you fully understand what the potential side effects are as this will help you to make an informed decision.

Help Yourself Is One Way To High Blood Pressure Treatment

In some cases hypertension can be cured without the need for prescription high blood pressure treatments. There are many simple and natural treatments for high blood pressure. You can lower your blood pressure by changing your eating habits, losing any excess weight and taking regular exercise. Giving up cigarettes and reducing your intake of sodium and alcohol can also help a great deal when it comes to treating hypertension.

Certain foods, herbs and health supplements are also good high blood pressure treatments. Garlic, honey, mung beans, turnips and chestnuts are all thought to help lower the blood pressure. Helpful herbs, minerals and supplements include hawthorn, omega 3 fatty acids, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, potassium and coenzyme Q10. Before taking any herb or supplement products it is important to check with your doctor to make sure that they are safe for you.