Treatments for Hypertension

The most effective treatment plan for hypertension uses a multifaceted approach. Treatment plans are also individualized to best address the specific cause and the patient's age, medical history, and severity of hypertension. Hypertension is highly treatable and in most people, prompt and ongoing treatment will result in a normalization of blood pressure and in minimizing the risk of serious complications.

Treatment begins with prevention. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, not drinking alcohol excessively, not smoking, eating a healthy-healthy diet, and getting regular exercise. These preventive measures are also generally recommended as treatment measures as well.

Not all people can effectively manage their blood pressure by these lifestyle measures alone. For these people oral medications, known as anti-hypertensive drugs, may be prescribed. Individual medications may be used alone or in combination with other medications.

Anti-hypertensive medications include diuretics, also known as "water pills", which lower blood pressure by stimulating the kidneys to flush extra fluid and salt from the body. ACE inhibitors lower blood pressure by preventing the body from making a hormone called angiotensin II, which narrows and tightens blood vessels. Angiotensin II receptor blockers protect blood vessels from the narrowing effects of angiotensin. Beta blockers help the heart to beat slower and less forcefully. Calcium channel blockers block calcium from entering the cells of the heart and blood vessels, resulting in relaxation of the vessels. Alpha blockers decrease nerve impulses that tighten blood vessels. Vasodilators relax and widen the blood vessels walls. Nervous system inhibitors work in the brain to increase messages to the blood vessels to relax and widen them.

Treatment of hypertension also includes addressing underlying causes such as thyroid disease, obesity, and kidney disease. If hypertension is caused by a certain medication, then a dosage adjustment or different medication may be needed.

Complications of hypertension are also treated as appropriate.

Source : http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com