Question: I am a 51 man and during a recent checkup my blood pressure was a little high, 135/88. My doctor prescribed some medication to lower it, but I’d first like try cutting down on salt and exercising more. What do you think? Should I take the meds right away or try other things first?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:

The target blood pressure goal is 120/80 mm Hg or lower in a person with no underlying disease. Changing your lifestyle can go a long way toward controlling high blood pressure. These changes usually include eating a healthier diet with less salt (the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, or DASH, diet), exercising more, quitting smoking and losing weight. The most important element in managing high blood pressure is follow-up care. Monitor your blood pressure if you are not taking medications immediately, and start your prescription medication if you still have high blood pressure with lifestyle changes.