Sit quietly and rest for 5–10 minutes
Slow your breathing: inhale 4 seconds, exhale 6 seconds
Loosen tight clothing
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and stimulants
Drink a glass of water if you may be dehydrated
Empty your bladder
Keep your head elevated and stay calm
Recheck your blood pressure after resting
Take prescribed blood pressure medication exactly as directed
If you missed a prescribed dose, follow your clinician’s instructions or the medication label
Avoid exercise or heavy activity until your blood pressure is controlled
Seek urgent medical help if blood pressure is 180/120 or higher, or if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, confusion, weakness, vision changes, or fainting