Treatments for Hypertension

The most common type of hypertension, or high blood pressure, is primary hypertension and it has no specific identifiable cause. Primary hypertension simply develops gradually over time. Secondary hypertension, which accounts for only five to ten percent of all adult cases according to the Mayo Clinic, is the result of some other condition such as kidney problems, congenital heart defects, adrenal gland tumors, some medications or illegal drugs such as amphetamines and cocaine.

Thiazide Diuretics

• Diuretics, or water pills, work with your kidneys to help rid your body of water and sodium which reduces your blood volume. In many cases diuretics are not prescribed unless other medications are not lowering your blood pressure. Indapamide is a specific type of thiazide diuretic that has been effective for people 80 and older, according to the Mayo Clinic. Side effects of diuretics can include leg cramps, weakness and fatigue.

Beta Blockers

• Beta blockers open your blood vessels which lowers your heartbeat and decreases the velocity. Therefore, your heart doesn't have to work as hard. Side effects of beta blockers may include insomnia, fatigue, depression, cold hands and feet, and symptoms of asthma. Beta blockers should never be stopped suddenly as this could cause a heart attack.

ACE Inhibitors

• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors obstruct the formation of a chemical that constricts your blood vessels. Side effects can include skin rash, chronic cough, loss of taste and, rarely, kidney failure. Angiotensin II receptor blockers also help to relax your blood vessels by blocking the chemical that constricts them. This medication can sometimes cause dizziness. The relaxation of the blood vessels from either of these types of medication is particularly important for individuals with heart failure, coronary artery disease or kidney failure.

Calcium Channel Blockers

• Calcium channel blockers dilate your blood vessels so your heart does not have to work as hard. By slowing your heart rate, your blood pressure is lowered. Side effects can include swollen ankles, palpitations, headache, dizziness and constipation. These side effects vary among the various calcium channel blockers medications.

Renin Inhibitors

• Renin is an enzyme that your kidneys produce, resulting in high blood pressure. Renin inhibitors decrease the product of renin. This results in the relaxation and widening of your blood vessels. As blood flows more easily, your blood pressure is reduced. Side effects may include diarrhea, dizziness or blurred vision.

Additional Medications

• There are other medications that may be prescribed when your hypertension is not responding to treatment. Alpha blockers lessen the nerve impulses to your blood vessels. Alpha-beta blockers lessen the nerve impulses as well as lowering your heartbeat. Central-acting agents inhibit your brain from communicating to your nervous system to speed your heartbeat and constrict your blood vessels.

Lifestyle Changes

• Lifestyle changes can be very beneficial in helping to control your high blood pressure along with your medications. A healthy diet with whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products, decreasing your sodium intake, limiting alcohol, not smoking, reducing stress, keeping a healthy weight and regular exercise can all help lower your blood pressure. You should keep track of your blood pressure by monitoring it at home.