Managing Hypertension: Causes, Treatments, and Long-Term Care

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Oluwakemi Balogun (Kemi), MD — Medhaven Health

Last updated: September 2025

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting adults worldwide. Often referred to as the “silent killer” because it typically has no obvious symptoms, hypertension can quietly damage blood vessels and organs for years before problems become apparent. If left untreated, it significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other serious health complications.

The good news? Hypertension is highly manageable with the right combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and ongoing medical supervision. This article outlines what causes high blood pressure, how it’s diagnosed, and the most effective treatment options to keep it under control.

What Is Hypertension?

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps. It’s measured using two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (top number): Pressure when the heart beats

• Diastolic pressure (bottom number): Pressure when the heart rests between beats

According to the American Heart Association:

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg

• Elevated: 120–129/<80 mmHg

• Hypertension Stage 1: 130–139/80–89 mmHg

• Hypertension Stage 2: 140+/90+ mmHg

• Hypertensive crisis: 180+/120+ mmHg (seek emergency care)

Causes and Risk Factors of Hypertension

Primary (Essential) Hypertension

This is the most common type and develops over time without a specific cause. It is often linked to:

• Genetics: Family history of high blood pressure

• Aging: Arteries stiffen over time

• Lifestyle factors: Sedentary habits, poor diet, high salt intake, alcohol use

Secondary Hypertension

This results from an identifiable cause, such as:

• Kidney disease

• Thyroid issues

• Hormonal disorders

• Sleep apnea

• Certain medications (like NSAIDs, decongestants, or birth control pills)

Symptoms to Watch For

Most people with high blood pressure experience no symptoms. However, severely high blood pressure may cause:

• Headaches

• Vision changes

• Chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness

If these symptoms occur, especially with very high readings, seek immediate medical attention.

Why Hypertension Matters

Long-term elevated blood pressure puts strain on the cardiovascular system and vital organs. It increases the risk for:

• Heart attack and stroke

• Heart failure

• Chronic kidney disease

• Eye damage (retinopathy)

• Cognitive decline or dementia

Managing hypertension not only protects your heart but also preserves your quality of life as you age.

How Is Hypertension Diagnosed?

Hypertension is diagnosed through repeated blood pressure measurements over time. A single high reading doesn’t mean you have hypertension—it must be consistently elevated across several visits.

Diagnostic Tools Include:

• Manual or automated blood pressure monitors

• Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (24-hour device)

• Home blood pressure monitoring

• Blood and urine tests to check kidney function or hormonal imbalances

• ECG or echocardiogram for heart assessment

Treatment Options for Hypertension

1. Lifestyle Modifications (First-Line Treatment)

For many people, especially in the early stages, lifestyle changes can significantly lower blood pressure.

Diet

• DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension): Focuses on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein while limiting salt, sugar, and red meat.

• Reduce sodium intake: Aim for less than 1,500 mg per day.

• Increase potassium intake: Helps balance sodium. Found in bananas, spinach, sweet potatoes, and beans.

Exercise

• At least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (like brisk walking) per week.

• Add strength training 2–3 times weekly.

Weight Loss

Losing even 5–10% of body weight can reduce blood pressure significantly.

Limit Alcohol and Stop Smoking

• No more than 1 drink/day for women, 2 for men.

• Smoking raises blood pressure and damages blood vessels.

Stress Management

Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

2. Medications for Blood Pressure Control

When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medications may be prescribed.

Common Classes of Medications:

• Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide): Help kidneys eliminate sodium and water.

• ACE Inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril): Help relax blood vessels.

• ARBs (e.g., losartan): Similar to ACE inhibitors, with fewer side effects.

• Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g., amlodipine): Relax muscles of the blood vessels.

• Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol): Reduce heart rate and workload.

Important: Take medications exactly as prescribed. Do not stop abruptly, even if your blood pressure improves.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring

Regular Checkups

Patients should monitor blood pressure regularly at home and visit their provider for follow-up care every 3 to 6 months or more frequently if unstable.

Lab Tests

Blood tests may be done to check kidney function, electrolyte levels, and the effects of medications.

Managing Coexisting Conditions

Conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea can worsen hypertension. Managing these is critical.

Q&A: Common Hypertension Questions

Q: Can I reverse high blood pressure completely?
A: While you may not be able to “cure” hypertension, you can control it. With consistent lifestyle changes and/or medication, many people maintain healthy blood pressure for years.

Q: Is it safe to exercise if I have high blood pressure?
A: Yes—and in fact, it’s highly recommended. Always check with your doctor before starting a new workout routine, especially if you’re on medications.

Q: Should I monitor my blood pressure at home?
A: Absolutely. Home monitoring helps track progress and alerts you to sudden changes. Bring your readings to your doctor visits for review.

Q: How long will I need to take medication?
A: It depends on your individual health and how your body responds to treatment. Some people can reduce or discontinue medications with sustained lifestyle changes, but others need long-term management.

Conclusion: Take Charge of Your Health

Hypertension doesn’t have to control your life. With the right plan, support, and commitment to healthier habits, you can manage your blood pressure effectively and reduce your risk of long-term complications.

At MedHaven Health, we provide comprehensive, patient-centered care to help you manage your blood pressure safely. From regular screenings and medication management to nutrition guidance and lifestyle coaching, our providers are here to support you every step of the way.