What are the lifestyle changes I can make to lower my blood pressure, and when is medication necessary?
To lower high blood pressure through lifestyle changes, you can: eat a heart-healthy diet low in sodium, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, limit alcohol intake, quit smoking, manage stress, get enough sleep, and increase potassium in your diet; medication is typically needed when lifestyle changes alone are not enough to effectively control your blood pressure, and your doctor will determine the appropriate course of action based on your individual situation. Engage in moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week, like brisk walking, swimming, or biking.