Hypertension - How do you manage or prevent it?

Lifestyle changes are key to managing and preventing high blood pressure. Even if you are taking medication for high blood pressure, you can benefit from the changes and perhaps even lower your medication dosage.

Healthy Eating: A diet with plenty of grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy foods will assist in lowering blood pressure. Limit salt intake.

Obtain a healthy weight: If your body mass index (BMI) is 25 or more, then lose weight. Losing as little as 10 pounds can reduce blood pressure.

Exercise: Regular aerobic workouts can help lower blood pressure for some even without losing weight. This can be achieved through a fast paced, 30 minute walk each day.

Stop smoking or don't start: Tobacco use can lead to increased cholesterol and other fatty deposits in the arteries and promote constricted blood vessels.

Lower alcohol and caffeine intake: Alcohol and caffeine can boost your blood pressure to an unhealthy level. Reduction or cessation in the intake of either one can lower blood pressure.

Manage Stress: Stress can aggravate existing blood pressure levels as well as temporarily increase them. Changes in daily routine and relaxation techniques can help in coping with stress.

If blood pressure has not decreased within 3 to 6 months of adapting these lifestyle changes, it's time to see the doctor again.