By losing weight, exercising more, and limiting your alcohol consumption, you may help to lower your blood pressure. Other lifestyle changes can include reducing your salt intake and following a diet that focuses on fruits and vegetables, while reducing fats and cholesterol. If these steps do not help to lower your blood pressure, your healthcare provider may recommend certain blood pressure medications. By controlling your blood pressure, you can help reduce the long-term negative effects of high blood pressure, such as kidney failure, strokes, or a heart attack.
(For more information, click How to Lower Blood Pressure. This eMedTV article offers more detailed information on how to lower your blood pressure through lifestyle changes and with specific medications. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)