How to treat high blood pressure that cannot be lowered

The inability to lower high blood pressure may be related to improper medication selection, poor lifestyle, or secondary hypertension. The treatment methods include adjusting medication, improving lifestyle habits, and identifying secondary factors.

1. Improper drug selection is a common cause of poor blood pressure control. Some patients may have poor response to a single antihypertensive drug and require combination therapy. For example, calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine can be used in combination with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors such as enalapril or diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide. Doctors will adjust the type and dosage of medication according to the specific condition of the patient to ensure the effectiveness of blood pressure reduction.

2. Failure to improve lifestyle is an important factor affecting blood pressure control. A high salt diet, lack of exercise, and long-term mental stress can all make it difficult to lower blood pressure. It is recommended to control the daily salt intake to below 5 grams and increase the intake of potassium rich foods such as bananas and spinach. Engage in 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking and swimming. Meanwhile, relieving stress through meditation, deep breathing, and other methods can help stabilize blood pressure.

3. Secondary hypertension is one of the important reasons why blood pressure is difficult to control. Kidney diseases and endocrine disorders such as primary aldosteronism or sleep apnea syndrome may lead to sustained increases in blood pressure. Patients need to undergo detailed examinations, such as kidney function tests, hormone level measurements, or sleep monitoring, to determine the cause. Treating secondary factors, such as surgical removal of adrenal tumors or using continuous positive airway pressure ventilation to treat sleep apnea, can effectively improve blood pressure.

If high blood pressure cannot be lowered, comprehensive treatment is needed from three aspects: medication, lifestyle, and secondary factors. Patients should regularly monitor their blood pressure, communicate with doctors in a timely manner to adjust treatment plans, and adhere to a healthy lifestyle in order to achieve long-term stable control of blood pressure.