Sit quietly and rest for 5 to 10 minutes
Take slow, deep breaths
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and energy drinks
Drink a glass of water if you may be dehydrated
Loosen tight clothing
Recheck your blood pressure after resting
Reduce salt intake
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy
Avoid processed and packaged foods
Stay physically active regularly
Maintain a healthy weight
Manage stress with relaxation techniques
Get enough sleep
Take prescribed blood pressure medicine exactly as directed
Do not skip doses of your blood pressure medicine
Avoid over-the-counter medicines that can raise blood pressure unless approved by a doctor
Call emergency services if blood pressure is very high with chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, confusion, weakness, or vision changes