Personal stories about taking medicine for high blood pressure

These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Terrence, age 59: After my doctor told me my blood pressure was too high, she suggested I try to bring it down by changing some of my habits. I quit smoking, went on a diet, and started a walking program. That made me feel healthier, but it didn't bring my blood pressure down very much. Now I take two kinds of blood pressure medicine as well as keeping up with my lifestyle changes. Everything is under control.

Magda, age 45: I just found out I have high blood pressure. I want to try to make some lifestyle changes before I start taking medicine. I know I need to start out by making small changes and sticking with them. I'm going to start by walking 15 minutes 5 days a week and cutting down on salt by looking for other ways to season my food. After 2 weeks of that, I'll add some more goals and walk a little longer. I really think I can do this.

Paolo, age 51: I just started taking medicine for my high blood pressure. My doctor thinks I might be able to control my blood pressure by losing weight and getting more exercise. But I just don't feel ready to make those changes. So I'm going to take medicine for 6 months and then talk to my doctor again about diet and exercise. Maybe I'll be ready then.

Hanh, age 64: About 6 years ago I found out my blood pressure was a little too high. I was a little overweight and I didn't get much exercise. So I went on a diet and started going to the gym regularly. I was very motivated, because I did not want to have to take medicine if I could avoid it. It worked. My blood pressure came down and has stayed down.