Sit down and rest quietly for 5–10 minutes
Take slow, deep breaths
Loosen tight clothing
Recheck your blood pressure after resting
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and exercise
Drink water if you may be dehydrated
Take your prescribed blood pressure medicine exactly as directed
If you missed a prescribed dose, take it only if your doctor’s instructions allow it
Use only medications prescribed for blood pressure emergencies
Call emergency services immediately if BP is 180/120 or higher with chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, confusion, weakness, vision changes, or trouble speaking
Seek urgent medical care if BP stays very high after resting and rechecking
Do not take extra doses or someone else’s medication without medical advice