When to Consider Blood Pressure Medication

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects an estimated 1.4 billion adults and increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and other serious health issues. Because it often doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms, many people don’t realize their blood pressure is elevated until it’s found during a routine exam.

While lifestyle changes can help lower blood pressure for some patients, medication becomes an important consideration when readings remain high or risk factors are present. At Summit Health and Pain, our providers include blood pressure screening as part of routine wellness exams at our five locations across Colorado.

Understanding blood pressure and your health

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Readings consist of two numbers: systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number). Normal blood pressure is generally below 120/80 mm Hg, while elevated or high readings can signal hypertension.

High blood pressure doesn’t usually have noticeable symptoms but quietly damages blood vessels and organs over time if untreated. We carefully assess your blood pressure and discuss any risk factors, including lifestyle, family history, other medical conditions such as diabetes, and cholesterol levels. 

Lifestyle changes may reduce the need for medication

We often recommend lifestyle adjustments first for elevated blood pressure (above 120/80 but below the threshold for hypertension). These changes may take several weeks or months to show effect, so patients are encouraged to monitor their progress consistently.

These habits can help lower blood pressure naturally:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet lower in sodium
• Staying physically active on a regular basis
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress and improving sleep quality

Our team can help you set realistic, personalized goals and monitor your progress over time.

When to consider medication

Medication becomes an important consideration when lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough to bring your readings to a safe range. We typically recommend starting blood pressure medication if your average blood pressure is consistently at or above 140/90 mm Hg.

If you have an existing cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or higher overall risk, we may recommend medication even at slightly lower thresholds to protect your long-term health and reduce the chance of a heart attack or stroke.

Medications for high blood pressure work in different ways. Some help your body get rid of excess sodium and fluid; others relax and widen blood vessels or reduce your heart’s workload. It’s common to try more than one type of medication or adjust doses over time to find the most effective combination with the fewest side effects.

Working with your care team

Starting blood pressure medication is a shared decision between you and your doctor at Summit Health and Pain. Your clinician will explain why medication might be beneficial, what to expect, and how it fits into your broader health plan. Regular follow-up appointments help ensure your treatment is working and adjusted as needed.

Even after you begin blood pressure medication, lifestyle changes remain a core part of your treatment. Healthy habits can enhance the effectiveness of medications and may allow you to revisit those choices with your doctor over time.

Taking charge of your heart health

High blood pressure doesn’t have to control your life. Early detection, thoughtful lifestyle changes, and appropriate use of medication when needed can keep your blood pressure in a safer range and prevent serious complications. 

At Summit Health and Pain, our experienced primary care team is here to guide you every step of the way. If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or want to learn more about your treatment options, schedule a consultation today.