![](https://www.plusonline.nl/sites/plusonline/files/styles/pol_carousel/public/hv-spn-sonja20190013kopie_0.jpg?itok=KLbwkweV)
Pharmacist Sonja Keizers answers
Pharmacist Sonja Keizers answers questions about medicines. This time: to take blood pressure medication or not?
I have had high blood pressure since childhood. I always eat salt-free and cook with fresh products. I still work and exercise daily, but my blood pressure is still too high. Do I need medication?
Reply:
It is wise to use less salt. The Dutch eat an average of 8.5 grams of salt per day. The standard for our daily salt intake is a maximum of 6 grams per day. Too much salt leads to high blood pressure and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and kidney damage. You are already doing a lot to limit your salt intake, such as cooking yourself and not adding extra salt. In addition, you lead an active life and you move every day. All of this contributes to good health. To determine whether you need blood pressure medication, you can make a risk assessment together with your doctor. Factors such as smoking, high cholesterol or overweight are also taken into account. In addition, age, gender and cardiovascular disease in the family also count. And not to forget: it is important what you want. So it’s all about the overall picture.
Also send in your medicine question. That’s possible here.
Sources):
- Plus Magazine