Been diagnosed? Here’s what to expect…
If you have regular readings of 140/90mmhg or higher (readings fluctuate throughout the day and vary from person to person) your GP will offer options.
MEDICATION
If you have consistently high blood pressure but you’re low-risk in other areas, your doctor will advise lifestyle changes first. Otherwise, you’ll need to take a combination of different medicines, depending on your age and ethnicity. For example, those under 55 will usually be offered an ACE inhibitor or an angiotensin ii receptor blocker (ARB). If you’re aged 55 or older (or you’re of African or Caribbean origin and of any age), you’ll usually be offered a calcium channel blocker. Other medications include diuretics and beta blockers.
SIDE EFFECTS
These can include a cough, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, headache, rash, slow heartbeat, swelling of the hands
and feet, upset stomach and weight gain. Not everyone experiences side effects and, if you do, they often wear off. See your GP, as taking two or more medicines at lower doses may be as effective as one medicine at a high dose, and could cause fewer side effects.
THE FUTURE
Some people will need medication for the rest of their life, although your GP will review your condition and you may be able to reduce or stop treatment if your blood pressure improves.