How to Treat Uncontrollable Blood Pressure Known as Resistant Hypertension

For most people with high blood pressure, it can be treated with one or more prescription blood pressure medications. Generally, one medication, or a combination of medications will help to lower blood pressure to normal levels. For some people however, their blood pressure will not go down even while taking medication. According to the Mayo Clinic in the article High Blood Pressure (hypertension), this condition is called resistant hypertension. If you are experiencing resistant hypertension, here are some things you can try to get your blood pressure under control.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask for a Referral - If your primary care physician is unable to get your blood pressure under control, you should ask for a referral to see a hypertension specialist. This person may be able to determine the right combination of medications to lower your blood pressure or find an underlying cause.

• 2

  Look into Other Medical Conditions - Your doctor or specialist may want to look into other medical conditions that may be causing your blood pressure to be high. Sleep apnea, kidney abnormalities and adrenal gland abnormalities are just some of the conditions that can cause high blood pressure. Taking birth control pills, cold medications or using illegal drugs such as cocaine can also keep blood pressure high. Be honest with your doctor about any medical issues or medications you may be taking so he can help you treat your blood pressure more effectively.

• 3

  Tell Your Doctor about Foods, Vitamins and Supplements - Some foods, like grapefruit, and vitamin and herbal supplements can negate the benefits of your blood pressure medications. Make sure you tell your doctor about your diet and all of the vitamin and herbal supplements you are taking.

• 4

  Ask Your Doctor about Aldosterone - Aldosterone is a hormone in the body that controls the way the body absorbs sodium and eliminates potassium. It has been found that in some people with resistant hypertension, the hormone aldosterone is high. If this is the case, your doctor can prescribe nonthiazide diuretic drugs to block this hormone so your blood pressure can go down.

• 5

  Make Sure You Are Taking Your Medications Properly - It is important to take all medications on a schedule and to not miss a dose in order for them to work properly. If you are not taking your medications regularly, this may be why they are not working to lower your blood pressure.

• 6

  Tell Your Doctor about Other Medications You are Taking - Medications for other health issues can have an adverse affect on your blood pressure medications. Be sure your doctor knows about all medications you are taking so you can work together to lower your blood pressure.

• 7

  Be Diligent about Your Health - Even though you are taking medication to lower your blood pressure, it doesn't mean you don't still have to watch your diet and exercise. Be diligent about eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight and adding exercise to your life to help lower your blood pressure.