When Should I Begin Taking Blood Pressure Medicine?

The need for medication to lower blood pressure can be different from person to person. There is no agreed-upon time that people with elevated blood pressure should begin taking hypertension medication, so you will need to assess yourself and determine if and when the time is right for you.

Monitor Your Numbers

• The easiest way to know if blood pressure is a real concern for you is to monitor your blood pressure readings. Have your blood pressure checked regularly and see if the results warrant serious concern.

  According to Revolution Health, if your blood pressure reading is equal to or greater than 160/100, which is considered very high, then the answer is easy. It is time to see a doctor and get your prescription. While you may be able to improve your blood pressure in other ways, it is important to begin treatment for this serious condition that can put you at risk of heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular illnesses.

  If the number is lower than 160/100 but is still above the normal range and is in excess of 140/90, consider your level of risk based on other factors listed below.

Consider Risk Factors

• If you have high blood pressure but do not meet the criteria for definite immediate treatment through drugs, it may be possible to get back into the normal range by making some dietary and lifestyle changes, according to MSN Health and Fitness.

  Your overall risk for heart disease may still be low if your cholesterol is normal, you are not a diabetic, you do not have a weight problem, do not smoke and you and your family do not have a history of heart or blood vessel problems. However, if you fiit into one or more of these high-risk groups, you should probably see a doctor and talk about the possibilities of beginning hypertension drug treatment.

Lifestyle Changes

• It may not be necessary to begin taking hypertension drugs if you can normalize your blood pressure by making lifestyle changes and sticking with them. For some people, these changes will not be enough. Many people must adapt their lifestyle as well as use medication to have normal blood pressure readings.

  Diet and exercise are the keys to controlling the problem, according to MSN Health and Fitness. Quitting smoking, losing weight, lowering cholesterol through diet or drugs and taking on a regular cardiovascular exercise regimen are all ways to help lower blood pressure to healthy levels.