Treatment for diastolic hypertension

The diastolic number reflects pressure in the arteries between heartbeats. One high reading can be affected by stress, pain, caffeine, recent exercise or an unsuitable cuff, so clinicians often confirm the pattern with careful home or clinic measurements. They may review kidney health, sleep, weight, medicines and family history. The aim is to lower pressure safely while considering the whole person.

Use a validated monitor and follow the technique given by your healthcare professional. Take medicines consistently and do not stop them because a reading improves. Helpful changes may include reducing salty processed foods, choosing regular movement, moderating alcohol, avoiding tobacco and improving sleep. Treatment may also address obesity or obstructive sleep apnoea. Ask about monitoring for effects on kidneys, electrolytes or symptoms such as dizziness.

Get emergency help for very high blood pressure with chest pain, severe breathlessness, weakness on one side, trouble speaking, confusion, fainting or a sudden severe headache. Contact a clinician promptly if readings remain raised, medicines cause troublesome dizziness, or you develop symptoms that could suggest angina, stroke or a transient ischaemic attack.

Ask how many readings are needed, what target is appropriate for you, and whether home monitoring is useful. Discuss possible causes, medicine choices, interactions, side effects, kidney checks and when your treatment should be reviewed.