Treatment, Medications, and Lifestyle Changes

Although you should go to your doctor about treatment options, a support group can help you deal with day-to-day questions that come up when living with high blood pressure.

Below is a list of places you can go to for support, and a little bit about them.

American Heart Association

The AHA is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting heart disease. Their site offers diet and lifestyle tips for getting your blood pressure under control.

Million Hearts

This national initiative led by the CDC and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services focuses on small steps people can take to prevent heart attacks and stroke.

Measure Up/Pressure Down

Read personal stories and connect with others who have decided to share their journey to controlling high blood pressure.

AHA’s Support Network

This online support group from the American Heart Association allows you to connect with others going through an array of heart issues, including high blood pressure.

Resources for Diet Advice

Low Salt Kitchen

This blog provides delicious low-salt recipes to help satisfy anyone wanting to follow a low-sodium diet.

Apps

Blood Pressure Monitor

This app allows users to track their vital signs, as well as record details like medications, weight, and other health data. Free on iOS.

Blood Pressure Companion

This app, available on iOS and Android, allows you to enter your blood pressure measurements and evaluate your numbers graphically over time. Share your readings with your doctor and set reminders to measure your BP.

Website for High Blood Pressure Products

Consumer Reports

This well-known independent nonprofit organization reviews the best home blood pressure monitors so you can keep track of your numbers.

Your High Blood Pressure Care Team

Your primary care physician may be the first doctor you talk to about your high blood pressure. In addition you might also want to add others to your team, such as:

• a registered dietician since a nutritionist may help you create a customized dietary plan.
• a cardiologist since a heart specialist can check if your high blood pressure has caused any damage to your heart.

Together with your team and these resources you can take control of your high blood pressure and optimize your healthy future.