Treatment of high blood pressure

High blood pressure is a multifactorial pathology, the origin of which cannot be explained by a single cause. And this makes it difficult to choose therapeutic measures to influence him. Treatment of high blood pressure is limited to maintaining optimal blood pressure, alleviating the patient's condition, and preventing possible complications. There are many ways to fight the disease, and a special approach is needed for each stage. In order to achieve the maximum effect, the treatment of hypertension should reasonably combine traditional and non-traditional methods, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient.

What is high blood pressure

heart pain with high blood pressure

Before you know how to treat high blood pressure, you need to understand what it is. High blood pressure is a disease for which there is a definite sign of an increase in blood pressure. It is considered elevated if the values on the tonometer scale regularly exceed 140/90 or more for a period of time. As the condition progresses, other signs appear. Common symptoms of high blood pressure include:

  • headache;
  • frequent dizziness and weakness;
  • nausea, which may become vomiting;
  • signs of increased excitement (nervousness, aggression, irritability);
  • poor sleep;
  • arrhythmia, heart pain;
  • forgetfulness.

Arterial hypertension develops when the walls of blood vessels are damaged and lose their ability to relax and contract independently, adapting to changing conditions. This is due to certain factors that cause prolonged stress in the vascular system. Excessive excitement of the central nervous system caused by strong emotional experiences is considered to be a major provoking factor in high blood pressure.

Other factors play a significant role:

  • large amount of salty food on the menu;
  • obesity;
  • lack of physical activity;
  • aging of the body;
  • severe overtime;
  • the cigarette, the habit of drinking alcohol;
  • hereditary predisposition to the disease.

To understand how to treat high blood pressure, you need to know its types, stages, and grades.

doctor examining a patient with high blood pressure

In most cases, essential arterial hypertension is diagnosed. It occurs as an independent pathology under the combined influence of different factors. In the treatment of primary hypertension, life-sustaining drug therapy is prescribed, combined with the optimization of overall lifestyle and rhythm of life.

Symptomatic arterial hypertension occurs as a manifestation (symptom) of another disease. Secondary type arterial hypertension is sharper and brighter, progressing more severely and faster. To treat such a pathology, it must directly affect the cause of its appearance. High blood pressure can often only be treated with surgery.

Hypertension and its treatment go through different stages of development. Based on the degree of damage to the target organs, three stages are distinguished: the first stage is characterized by the absence of such lesions, and the third stage causes irreversible, life-threatening processes. Such a term, as a measure of disease, indicates the level of increase in blood pressure in hypertension. There are three stages: the first is a slight and irregular rise in pressure, and the third is characterized by high, persistent, poorly corrected tonometer readings. The second and second grades can be said to be temporary.

Modern methods of treating pathology

Modern treatment involves traditional, classic treatment methods that can be supplemented with non-traditional, alternative methods. The traditional method is based on drug therapy.

About drug therapy

There is a certain list of medications that meet the standards for traditional treatment of high blood pressure. Each should only be prescribed by a doctor for life, according to the prescribed dosing schedule. Unauthorized deletion or exchange of medications is not permitted. Treatment should not be stopped if high blood pressure develops, even if the pressure level has returned to normal and the person is feeling well.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors

Characteristics of the drugs:

  • They have few side effects.
  • They are able to protect the kidneys and heart from possible complications, they can keep the pressure normal for a long time.
  • These drugs are often used as monotherapy, but can also be used in combination with other agents.
  • The essence of the effect of ACE inhibitors is to prevent the transition of ACE 1 to ACE 2.
  • You can start taking antihypertensive drugs from this group if your high blood pressure responds well to medication control.

Angiotensin 2 Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

ARB is a relatively new drug. It has not been used for so long to treat high blood pressure. Distinctive features:

  • Modern medicines cause even fewer side effects.
  • Effectively protects internal organs.
  • They have good antihypertensive properties.
  • Angiotensin 2 cannot contract blood vessels under the influence of these drugs because the receptors in the blood vessels that carry the signal to constrict the blood vessel wall are blocked.

Beta blockers

Description:

  • They belong to the group of medicines of the old generation.
  • It is prescribed for persistent arterial hypertension associated with high blood pressure.
  • Suitable for patients with heart problems.
  • They have quite a few side effects.
  • The drugs are usually combined with diuretics.
  • There are contraindications to use (diabetes mellitus, arrhythmia, obstructive processes in the bronchi).

calcium antagonists

Distinctive features and characteristics:

  • They do not allow calcium ions to enter the vessel, which reduces the stiffness of the vessel walls.
  • Medications dilate blood vessels, improve coronary circulation in high blood pressure.
  • Allows efficient control of upper and lower pressure values.
  • There are side effects.
  • The tablets have contraindications (narrowed aorta, damaged metabolism).

Diuretics

pills for high blood pressure

It is also called a diuretic. Main characteristics:

  • Remove excess fluid from the body.
  • Reduce the level of potassium in your cells.
  • It can lead to dehydration and hypokalaemia (lack of potassium).
  • Normalizes blood pressure well.
  • It is used as a single drug and in combination with other drugs.

And now briefly about some alternative treatments to treat conditions like arterial hypertension.

Physiotherapy

Such therapy complements the main treatment of high blood pressure very well. Its use allows the dose of medications taken to be reduced and, in some cases, allows them to be completely deprived. Benefits of physiotherapy:

  • improves the condition of blood vessels;
  • normalizes blood flow in the brain;
  • stabilizes coronary circulation;
  • helps relieve nervous tension.

If high blood pressure develops, what treatment is recommended:

  1. Use of a galvanic collar based on a solution of magnesium sulphate and novocaine.
  2. Application of general darsonvalization.
  3. Electric power.
  4. Massage procedures. The blow applies to the head and collar area.
  5. Treatment by bromine electrophoresis.

What other treatments for the disease can be tried?

Iodine treatment

iodine for the treatment of high blood pressure

Iodine is needed to provide normal oxidative processes that stimulate brain activity. Without it, normal thyroid function is impossible. The mineral is able to neutralize unstable microbes, leading to improved mood and decreased irritability. It increases the elasticity of the vessel wall and has a beneficial effect on the blood plasma. It gives energy, helps burn fat deposits, keeps teeth, nails and hair healthy and strong.

The treatment of high blood pressure with iodine is the so-called "Indian method". How to overcome high blood pressure with the help of? Such treatment courses should be completed twice: in early fall and early spring. The entire course lasts 20 days. After the first 10 days of treatment, they take a break for another 10 days and then continue for the next decade. The essence of the treatment is to draw circles on specific areas of the body with iodine and a cotton ball according to a certain pattern. Every day a new circle is drawn in a new place.

Treatment with vitamins and minerals

It is believed that in order to effectively treat high blood pressure, you need to take a complex of special minerals and vitamins. This method is based on the assumption that one of the main causes of high blood pressure is a lack of magnesium in the blood. Proponents of the method believe that magnesium, combined with vitamin B6 and elements such as taurine (a natural diuretic), fish oil (a natural source of valuable amino acids), can strengthen the cardiovascular system and completely eliminate drugs.

Low carb diet

How to remove the symptoms of hypertension diet? Rapid carbohydrates are a source of excess weight and cholesterol in the blood, increasing the risk of developing diabetes. These factors negatively affect the condition of the vessels. By reducing the amount of carbohydrates in your diet, you can help lower your blood pressure with a special diet. Good results can be achieved by combining diet with magnesium intake as well as moderate exercise.

In addition to these methods, arterial hypertension can be treated with homeopathy, hirudotherapy, movement therapy, acupuncture, acupressure, breathing exercises, herbs and yoga.

Principles and standard schemes of complex therapy

There are two approaches to the pharmacological treatment of hypertension.

  1. The clinical recommendations for the treatment of arterial hypertension in this case are as follows: medication should be initiated as monotherapy. They are prescribed a medication first. The concomitant dose is as small as possible in a given situation. If the effect is not satisfactory, the dose is gradually increased. If there are still no results or the drug has unwanted side effects, it will be replaced with another. As the most extreme option, monotherapy is being replaced by combination therapy.
  2. The principles of treating arterial hypertension are completely different here. Proponents of the different approach are convinced that it is advisable to start treatment with more than one drug immediately. It is believed that a well-combined drug from two or more different groups works together more effectively than separately. Each eliminates the side effects caused by the other. In this case, it is possible to reduce the dose of both medicines as much as possible. And the impact will be high. This method of treatment is particularly good for patients who are at high risk of developing complications in the form of cardiovascular disease.
antihypertensive drugs

For the convenience of patients, pharmacies have appeared in pharmacies that combine several active ingredients from different groups of drugs at the same time. It is convenient to take such pills (drink one a day) and this is an important benefit.

Effective treatment of high blood pressure depends on the right drug combinations.

Suggested combinations for the treatment of arterial hypertension:

  • diuretic in combination with an ACE inhibitor;
  • An ACE inhibitor in combination with a calcium antagonist;
  • use of a calcium antagonist in combination with an angiotensin 2 receptor blocker;
  • diuretic and calcium antagonist;
  • diuretic and angiotensin 2 receptor blocker;
  • beta-blocker and diuretic;
  • calcium channel blocker in combination with a beta-blocker.

Each stage of the disease requires adherence to a specific system and principles for the treatment of hypertension.

First stage (140/90 - 160/100)

How to treat high blood pressure in the first stage? Medications are not prescribed in the early stages of the disease. It is only recommended for use in hypertensive crisis when first aid needs to be given quickly and effectively. The first stage is the simplest, the pressure can be normalized by maintaining a proper lifestyle. At this stage, you can actively use herbs, massage, gymnastics, physiotherapy, and other non-drug alternative therapies.

High blood pressure, like the pathology of the first stage, does not require the use of drugs. They are not used to stabilize pressure, but only when it is necessary to reduce the excitation of the central nervous system, normalize blood flow to the brain, and also affect the underlying disease (if we are talking about secondary high blood pressure).

Second stage (160/100 to 180/110)

In most cases, this involves taking medication. Some patients are treated with small doses and monotherapy. For others, you may need to increase the dose or prescribe drug combinations. Medications are prescribed not only to reduce pressure but also to prevent the development of complications.

It is combined with preventative measures, lifestyle optimization, and elimination of provocative factors.

Third stage (180/110 and higher)

blood pressure measurement in case of high blood pressure

Principles for treating high blood pressure at this stage:

  • It is not possible to reduce the pressure suddenly.
  • It is advisable to reduce the tonometer values by no more than 15% of the initial values.
  • When treating a severe stage of the disease, the patient should be prescribed combination therapy with 2-3 drugs.
  • If symptomatic hypertension is observed, medications are prescribed. affects the cause of the main disease. Surgical treatment is prescribed if necessary.

Efforts should be made to minimize risk factors, and all recommendations for the treatment of hypertension recommended by the physician should be followed. At this stage, it is important to monitor the condition of the organs called the targets of high blood pressure: the heart, kidneys, brain, eyes, blood vessels.

Kidney disease often causes high blood pressure. Medication for nephrogenic (secondary) arterial hypertension should ensure:

  • normalization of the pressure level;
  • alleviation of patient well-being, removal of unpleasant symptoms;
  • inhibiting the development of renal failure;
  • prolonging the patient's life.

Medicines are most commonly used to prepare a patient for surgery or in the postoperative period. Complex treatment is also recommended for the elderly and those contraindicated under anesthesia. The most effective and often the only measure to combat kidney pathology is surgical treatment.

How to handle yourself properly and effectively

You can treat high blood pressure at home, but it is advisable to discuss all measures with your doctor so that the treatment is beneficial and not harmful.

Traditional medicine offers a number of effective and safe ways to lower blood pressure. How to treat arterial hypertension without medication?

Baths. Using a hot foot bath reduces pressure well and quickly, especially when mustard powder is added to the water.

currant for high blood pressure

Grenade. In case of high blood pressure, the fruit itself is very useful. But pomegranate can be treated with a peel. It is brewed instead of tea and drunk in unlimited quantities.

Redcurrant. Useful in any form, especially fresh. You can make compote, drink juice, cook jam, eat very delicious and healthy fresh berries, mashed with sugar. Eliminates unpleasant symptoms associated with high blood pressure.

Useful vegetables. Arterial hypertension can be treated by consuming a variety of vegetables. Beets are useful in any form. Its juice copes well with atherosclerosis, lowers blood pressure. Potatoes fried in a "uniform" contain a lot of potassium, which is good for the heart and blood vessels. It fights the pressure and strengthens the blood vessels with onions as well as garlic, it should be eaten every day.

Healing elixir. Ingredients: onion (1 piece), garlic (4 cloves), dried mountain ash (tablespoon). Grind all this, pour in cold water (1 liter) and cook on low heat for 15 minutes after boiling. Then pour in a pinch of herbs: cottage cheese, dill, parsley. Mix well and boil for another 15 minutes.

After cooking, cool and filter. Then get rid of high blood pressure by consuming up to one and a half tablespoons up to four times a day. It should be taken half an hour before a meal. The entire course takes about ten days. After a 21-day break, one course of treatment should be taken again.

Rosehip with honey. Boil a tablespoon of dry rosehips (fruit) in boiling water (500 g) and heat over low heat for 10 minutes. Then cool and pull through a cheese cloth. You can drink the recommended amount in any amount by adding honey (1 tablespoon) to the drink.

Mineral water drink. In mineral water (200 g) add honey (1 tablespoon), lemon (half fruit juice), mix everything. To cope with high blood pressure, the medicine should be taken in the morning before a meal, with one glass a week.

Is It Possible To Get Rid Of High Blood Pressure Permanently?

headache with high blood pressure

If secondary high blood pressure is diagnosed, the fight against it can be quite effective. How to treat arterial hypertension in this case? Finding the cause of the disease in time and eliminating it will lead to a complete cure of the high blood pressure. A good result gives surgical treatment. The patient can avoid serious complications and put an end to high blood pressure permanently.

In essential (primary) hypertension, complete recovery is expected only at a very early stage in the development of the disease. To do this, you need to get used to regular pressure measurements, this applies to absolutely everyone, even healthy people. Everyone can take a few minutes for this simple procedure. Fluctuations in indicators over time can stop the progression of high blood pressure.

How to get rid of high blood pressure forever? You need to rethink your priorities to fight the disease. It is important to understand that the further development of events depends only on the person. What to do to cure the disease:

  • time and complete rest;
  • protects the nervous system;
  • gives up salt almost completely;
  • force yourself to walk more often, exercise more, exercise regularly, or at least do exercises;
  • do not sit in front of the computer for long periods of time;
  • try to lose weight if the weight has exceeded the allowable limits;
  • forget cigarettes, coffee, alcohol;
  • remove harmful foods from your diet, especially those that increase cholesterol levels and affect weight.
heart and arterial hypertension

Folk remedies as well as various methods of drug-free alternative medicine help. The most important thing is not to overdo the treatment and consult your doctor on how to deal with high blood pressure as effectively as possible.

When a hypertensive disease has crossed the first stage, you need to tune in to lifelong treatment and not have to have vain illusions. How to beat high blood pressure in chronic form - no one knows. In this situation, one can only learn to control the disease.

In the fight against high blood pressure, we need to remember that self-medication without prescription can only hurt. You should keep taking pills, even if your health seems to be in perfect order. Treatment of hypertension with other methods can prevent possible complications, reduce the side effects of medications, and reduce their dosage. But the abolition of drug therapy can only be considered in the early stages of the disease, only with the permission of the attending physician.