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What is the blood pressure release trick?

Take a deep breath from your core, hold your breath for about two seconds, then slowly exhale. Pause for a few moments and repeat. Relax! Stress is a key contributor to high blood pressure, so do whatever you can to relax.

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How Can I Lower My Blood Pressure Immediately?

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a dangerous condition that impacts nearly half of adults in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2018, close to half a million deaths in the country had high blood pressure as a primary or contributing cause. Occurring when the force of blood pressing against artery walls is consistently too high, high blood pressure requires a long-term care approach. However, there are several ways to temporarily lower your blood pressure in just a matter of minutes—give these methods a try if you’d like to lower your blood pressure immediately: Take a warm bath or shower. Stay in your shower or bath for at least 15 minutes and enjoy the warm water. This can also help reduce muscle tension. Stay in your shower or bath for at least 15 minutes and enjoy the warm water. This can also help reduce muscle tension. Do a breathing exercise . Take a deep breath from your core, hold your breath for about two seconds, then slowly exhale. Pause for a few moments and repeat. . Take a deep breath from your core, hold your breath for about two seconds, then slowly exhale. Pause for a few moments and repeat. Relax! Stress is a key contributor to high blood pressure, so do whatever you can to relax. This may be as simple as sitting in a quiet room for a few moments, doing a few stretching exercises, reading a good book, or meditating. These techniques can provide a quick fix, but it’s important to implement a long-term care plan to successfully manage your high blood pressure. Some of the most effective ways to lower blood pressure include:

Losing excess weight

Quitting smoking

Reducing alcohol and caffeine intake

Prioritizing sleep

Avoiding stressful situations, if possible

Eating less sodium, sugar, refined carbohydrates and processed foods

Regularly engaging in low-impact exercise (about 30 minutes every day)

Taking medication to lower blood pressure

What Are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?

Perhaps you’re not sure if you have high blood pressure. If it has been a while since you’ve had your blood pressure taken, consider scheduling a wellness visit with your medical provider. In the meantime, here are some of the key signs of high blood pressure to watch out for:

Headaches

Nosebleeds

Dizziness

Skin flushing (redness)

Bloody urine

When to Call 911

High blood pressure may warrant emergency care. If your blood pressure is 180/120 or greater, or if you experience any of the following symptoms, call 911 immediately:

Sudden changes in vision

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Trouble speaking

Sudden back pain

Numbness or weakness

Your Partner in Heart Health

Tufts Medical Center Community Care is here to help you achieve your best heart health. Our multispecialty medical group features a growing team of internists, family medicine physicians and cardiologists who collaborate to provide comprehensive care to patients with high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. To schedule an appointment with a cardiologist or primary care physician at Tufts Medical Center Community Care, contact our friendly professionals today or reserve an appointment online. Telemedicine services are also available—give us a call to learn if this type of appointment is right for you.

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