High blood pressure is a serious health problem because it increases the risk for strokes. A new study shows, however, that controlling hypertension with medication may not provide the kind of outcome-stroke prevention-doctors expect.
Keeping Blood Pressure Under Control
Researchers tracked more than 26,000 individuals in Alabama for over six years. They were all at least 45 at the start of the study. At the beginning of the research, more than 12,000 of them were taking medications that brought their blood pressure into what was considered a healthy range. Another 4,000 were taking medicines but their blood pressure was not under control.
Stroke Prevention Didn’t Work
The researchers found that people who needed three medicines to manage their hypertension were two and a half times more likely to suffer a stroke than their peers whose blood pressure was normal without medication.
According to the lead author,
“You’re in as much trouble by the time you are on three medications that achieve excellent control as you are when you have hypertension and it is untreated, which is amazing.”
The researchers suggest that preventing high blood pressure naturally rather than treating it with medications after it occurs might offer better results for stroke prevention. Some of the best strategies for keeping blood pressure in a healthy zone are simple and well-known, but perhaps more honored in the breach: maintain optimal weight, follow a DASH diet rich in vegetables, exercise regularly, and take time to breathe slowly or meditate. If you would like to learn more about following a DASH diet, you may wish to consult our book, The People’s Pharmacy Quick & Handy Home Remedies.
