Many people remain on blood pressure medications for life. Some people, however, can wean themselves off of these medications when they make lifestyle changes that naturally lower their blood pressure. A person should never take themselves off their medication without the guidance of a doctor, however. Doing so could be detrimental to their health and well-being.
Halting Use of Blood Pressure Medication
A person may be able to discontinue their use of blood pressure medication when they address the underlying cause of their hypertension. Many factors play a role in the development of high blood pressure, including excessive use of salt, drinking alcohol, and being overweight. Changing one’s lifestyle may help reduce or eliminate the need for this medication. However, the person must know how and when to taper blood pressure meds.
Understanding Normal Blood Pressure
What is a normal blood pressure reading? The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association define a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg as normal. Anything above 130/90 is considered high. Readings that fall between the two are considered elevated.
How to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally
Men and women can take steps to lower their blood pressure naturally. One way to do so is to follow the DASH eating plan and get regular exercise. Losing weight and reducing stress will also help a person achieve this goal. Individuals who smoke need to quit to lower their blood pressure, and alcohol should be consumed in moderation, if at all. Set a sleep schedule and stick to it to help lower blood pressure.
Why Blood Pressure Medication is Needed
Lifestyle changes may not be enough to bring blood pressure down to a safe level. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease or thyroid cancer, may need to continue taking this medication. The risk of high blood pressure increases with age, so that blood pressure medication may be required in older adults.
Why Tapering is Critical
Individuals must know how to taper their blood pressure medication use. Stopping the medication suddenly rather than weaning off of it can lead to a heart attack or other serious health issues. A person should have regular blood pressure readings for six to 24 months before weaning off the medication.
The dose must be tapered over time. A doctor should monitor this process to see how blood pressure levels change with each adjustment. Furthermore, a person should only taper one medication at a time. Women who are pregnant and individuals who have a scheduled surgery may find they need to come off this medication. They should work with their doctor to find an alternative that is safe or to safely wean off of their current medication until the pregnancy ends or the surgical procedure has been performed.
Individuals might find they can make lifestyle changes and get their blood pressure under control. They do so by following a healthy diet, maintaining a sleep schedule, reducing stress, and engaging in regular exercise. However, certain factors, such as chronic health conditions and age, are less under their control and may be contributing to elevated blood pressure.
Working with their doctor, a person can explore different options when it comes to addressing their high blood pressure and weaning off the medication. This step should never be taken without the guidance of a doctor, as halting the medicine suddenly can lead to new health issues or possibly death. As blood pressure medications are generally safe, a person should not hesitate to take them as needed.