In recent years, we have learned more about the benefits of controlling blood pressure more aggressively: reduced risk for strokes and heart attacks. Although I recommend eating a low-salt diet, being active, smoking cessation, and losing weight... often medications are needed as well. We have several excellent medications available to help control hypertension that we use individually, and together. This wide selection allows us to individualize the combination for each patient so we can achieve adequate blood pressure control in a way that is easy to take and with no side effects. Be honest with your doctor. Tell him/her what you're taking, so together, you can find the combination that's right for you.