The first step in controlling high blood pressure is to make certain lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, becoming more physically active, and drinking less alcohol. Not only can lifestyle changes help control blood pressure, but they also often help improve a person's quality of life. It may take three to six months before your healthcare provider sees the full benefit of lifestyle changes on your blood pressure. If lifestyle changes alone do not help to lower your blood pressure, certain medications can be prescribed.
(Click Controlling High Blood Pressure for more information on how to effectively control high blood pressure through lifestyle changes or with certain medications. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)