Sit down and rest quietly
Take slow, deep breaths
Loosen tight clothing
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and exercise
Drink a glass of water if you may be dehydrated
Recheck your blood pressure after 5 to 10 minutes
Take your prescribed blood pressure medicine exactly as directed
If you were told by your doctor to take an extra dose for high readings, follow that plan only
Seek urgent medical care if blood pressure is 180/120 or higher and stays high after resting
Call emergency services immediately if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, weakness, confusion, vision changes, or trouble speaking