High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure occurs when the pressure inside the arteries carrying blood to all organs and tissues is too great. Increased pressure puts the heart at risk of disease and failure, because it has to pump extra hard to push blood around the body.

Generally speaking, an artery is like a garden hose, Doering says, and the more water that is trying to be pushed through, the greater the pressure. If you decrease the amount of water or widen the hose, the pressure inside the hose lessens.

Diuretics
These are usually the first line of defense against high blood pressure. Diuretics cause the kidneys to increase the amount of sodium and water removed from the bloodstream, resulting in less fluid in the arteries, which lowers blood pressure.

Signature side effect: Low potassium, which results in weakness, tiredness, muscle cramps, and tingling or numbness.

ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors
These drugs lower blood pressure by stopping the body from producing a chemical that narrows blood vessels, which keeps the vessels open.

Signature side effect: Coughing

Beta Blockers
These very commonly prescribed drugs slow the heart rate and lower the force of each beat so less blood is pushed through the arteries.

Signature side effect: Lethargy or decreased energy. Not recommended for asthmatics, as it may cause or aggravate an asthma attack.

Calcium Channel Blockers
These drugs relax blood vessels, allowing them to expand, which lowers blood pressure.

Signature side effect: Side effects are rare but may include flushing, headache, and peripheral edema (tissue swelling, usually in lower limbs).