Maintenance medicine for high blood pressure

High blood pressure often causes no noticeable symptoms, so feeling well does not show whether treatment is working. Different medicines reduce pressure in different ways, such as relaxing blood vessels, reducing excess fluid or changing how the heart responds. Some people need one medicine; others need a combination. The choice depends on readings, age, kidney function, other conditions, pregnancy plans and possible interactions. Monitoring may include repeat blood pressure checks and blood tests. Treatment helps lower the risk of complications including stroke, heart failure and chronic kidney disease.

Take the medicine at the prescribed time and keep a refill routine. If you miss a dose, follow the instructions supplied with that medicine or ask a pharmacist rather than doubling up. Do not stop treatment suddenly without clinical advice. Record home readings with the date, time and symptoms, using a validated monitor if one has been recommended. Reduce excess salt, stay active within your abilities, avoid smoking and discuss alcohol, supplements and painkillers with a clinician. See [Hypertension](/conditions/hypertension/) for background information.

Call emergency services for sudden weakness or numbness on one side, facial drooping, trouble speaking, severe chest pain, severe breathlessness, collapse or a sudden severe headache. These can be signs of a [Stroke](/conditions/stroke/), [Transient Ischaemic Attack](/conditions/transient-ischaemic-attack/), angina or another emergency. Seek medical advice promptly for troubling swelling, fainting, severe dizziness or suspected medicine reactions.

Ask what blood pressure range is appropriate for you, when to measure it, which side effects matter and when blood tests are needed. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, kidney problems, sleep symptoms, weight changes and every prescription, over-the-counter medicine or supplement you use.