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10 HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: PART 4 Of 5 We've already given you an overview of the key facts regarding High Blood Pressure and you've hopefully come to understand just how crucial it is that you form a partnership with your doctor in managing this chronic condition. We have looked at what causes this and how it diagnosed. We have also explained just why High Blood Pressure is so important and you should understand how damaging it can be. we have already considered the lifestyle management of High Blood pressure so let's now consider the medical side of things. medIcal managemenT of HIgH Blood Pressure Is all aBouT medIcaTIons There are several types of medications used and within each type there are several specific medications and brands. The guidelines and recommendations for how and when each of these should be used are complex and ever-changing (sometimes because experts disagree but mainly because science and research is on- going and so more and more is being learned all the time). Without getting overly complex or detailed, the main types of medications used are: • Diuretics, which help the kidneys get rid of excess salt and fluid • Beta blockers (and so-called alpha blockers), which slow the heart and reduce the strength of heart contractions • ACE-inhibitors, which block an enzyme that otherwise causes blood vessel constriction • Calcium Channel Blockers, which reduce calcium entry into into blood vessels cells and in this way, reduce blood vessel constriction we are all unIque and so the medications that work best for one person may not be ideal for another. This is why your doctor will very carefully consider what medication is best for you. IT's noT an exacT scIence and so we do find some variability in the expected results. What this means is that some "trial and error" is sometimes unavoidable in arriving at the best medication for a given person. This may take time and seem "wasteful" to you, but may be unavoidable. measuremenT Is crucIal: the aim is usually to get your blood pressure below 140/90 and if this is not happening, it may well be necessary to change dosage / strength and or try different medications and or add additional medications. sIde effecTs can be a very real problem for some people but these are not usually severe, do not affect everyone, and often reduce over time. It is important to discuss any side effects with your doctor. HIgH Blood Pressure Is a cHronIc (lIfe-long) condition. It is vital that you understand what this means: your aim is blood pressure control rather than a cure. This means, for most people, life-long medication. As you have already learned, the reduction in serious medical risks is well worthwhile. Taking pills, even every day for life, is better than having a heart attack or a stroke.

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