Sit quietly and rest for 5–10 minutes
Take slow, deep breaths
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and recreational drugs
Drink a glass of water if you may be dehydrated
Loosen tight clothing
Recheck your blood pressure after resting
Take your prescribed blood pressure medicine exactly as directed
If you missed a dose, follow your doctor’s instructions or pharmacist’s advice
Avoid strenuous activity until your blood pressure is lower
Reduce salt intake immediately
Lie down with your head slightly elevated if you feel unwell
Seek urgent medical care if blood pressure is 180/120 or higher
Seek urgent medical care if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, confusion, weakness, vision changes, or fainting