Is there some other way of controlling BP other than tablets?

  • Thread starter Thread starter ank_gl
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around alternative methods for controlling blood pressure (BP) beyond medication, exploring lifestyle changes, dietary considerations, and the impact of genetics on hypertension management.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, can help manage BP, but the effectiveness may depend on the severity of the condition.
  • One participant mentions that aerobic exercise, maintaining an ideal body mass index, and avoiding salty foods may be beneficial, while also noting that genetic factors can necessitate medication regardless of lifestyle efforts.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of following a doctor's advice, especially in cases of dangerously high BP, and highlights that medication should not be disregarded.
  • A participant shares a personal anecdote about a family member who maintained a healthy lifestyle yet suffered from severe hypertension, indicating the complexity of BP management.
  • Concerns about genetic predisposition to hypertension are raised, particularly in relation to family history and ethnic background.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the effectiveness of non-medication approaches to managing BP, indicating that while lifestyle changes may help, there is no consensus on their sufficiency for everyone, especially those with a strong genetic component.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying personal experiences and acknowledges the complexity of hypertension management, including the role of genetics and individual health conditions.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals seeking alternative methods to manage blood pressure, those interested in lifestyle modifications for health, and caregivers of people with hypertension may find this discussion relevant.

ank_gl
Messages
741
Reaction score
0
i need to know if there is some other way of controlling BP other than tablets? or one has to continue with tablets forever??
 
Biology news on Phys.org
Depends upon how severe it is. W is on pills, but also has a strict diet (which she can't seem to stick to). Of course, smoking is a no-no. There are other lifestyle alterations that are beneficial, such as avoiding stress. You really have to ask your doctor to be sure.
 
ank_gl said:
i need to know if there is some other way of controlling BP other than tablets? or one has to continue with tablets forever??

aerobic exercise at least 30 minutes a day, maintaining body mass index near ideal ( don't get overweight), avoid salty foods ( although it looks like asians and african americans are more salt responsive hypertensives) . However, if there is a strong genetic component you may be doing all the above and still need blood pressure medicines ( I have a triathlete who has to take 3 pills to control his!) Both his parents had hypertension in their 20s and he is also african american. In addition, it looks like low potassium and low calcium can exacerbate hypertension so a diet rich in potassium and calcium may help.
 
Last edited:
Thanks for that, Adrenaline. If W was told about all of that stuff, she never mentioned it to me. I'll make her read your post.
 
I think it goes without saying that if your blood pressure is dangerously high and your doctor prescribes medication to bring it down TAKE THE MEDICATION!

Other things like diet and moderate exercise, with your doctor's approval is also good, but is not a substitute in a dangerous situation.

My father suffered a massive stroke that left him paralyzed at age 52 then a second at age 53 that killed him.

He was thin, fit, and ate a diet for his blood pressure, my entre life I never knew him to eat salt.
 
Last edited:
thanks for all the replies. actually my mum takes those tablets(she asked me ask this:)). anyways she is neither overweight nor is the salt quantity in our diet high. regular exercise is ON. but yes, my grandparents did suffer from hypertension and sugar, so she is a bit scared!
 

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
5K
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
6K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Replies
13
Views
2K