Quick Answer
Often, but not always. Some patients with stage 1 hypertension who make significant lifestyle changes — sustained weight loss, sodium reduction, regular activity, alcohol reduction — can come off medication over time. Most patients with stage 2 hypertension or significant cardiovascular risk factors will be on at least one medication long-term, because the disease itself is long-term. The trade-off is well worth it: blood pressure control dramatically reduces stroke and heart attack risk for decades.
This question comes up frequently for patients researching hypertension care at Good Health NC in Knightdale, NC.
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