Do I need to take antihypertensive medication if my blood pressure stays at 140/90

Whether to take antihypertensive medication for a continuous blood pressure of 140/90mmHg depends on individual circumstances. If it is newly discovered and there are no other risk factors, lifestyle intervention can be used to control it; If combined with diabetes, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases or target organ damage, it is usually recommended to start drug treatment under the guidance of a doctor. For patients with mild elevation of blood pressure without complications, priority should be given to non pharmacological measures such as low salt diet, weight control, and regular exercise. Daily sodium intake should not exceed 5 grams, and reduce intake of pickled and processed foods. Perform 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking or swimming. At the same time, it is necessary to quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, maintain emotional stability, and monitor blood pressure changes for 1-3 months. Some patients can lower their blood pressure below 130/80mmHg through the above adjustments.

If combined with hypertension target organ damage, such as left ventricular hypertrophy, proteinuria, or suffering from diabetes, chronic kidney disease and other basic diseases, the blood pressure of 140/90mmHg has constituted a clear drug indication. At this time, after evaluation by a cardiovascular specialist, calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine besylate tablets and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors such as enalapril maleate tablets should be selected. During medication, it is necessary to regularly check liver and kidney function, electrolytes, and observe for adverse reactions such as lower limb edema and dry cough. For elderly patients or those with special conditions such as carotid artery stenosis, individualized adjustment of blood pressure lowering goals is necessary. It is recommended that all individuals with persistent abnormal blood pressure undergo comprehensive examinations such as dynamic blood pressure monitoring, electrocardiogram, and urinary microalbumin to clarify the grading and risk stratification of hypertension. In daily life, traditional Chinese medicine tea drinks such as cassia seed chrysanthemum tea can be used to assist in regulation, but it cannot replace formal treatment. If the blood pressure still does not reach the standard after 3 months of lifestyle intervention, or if symptoms such as headache and blurred vision occur, immediate medical attention should be sought to adjust the treatment plan.