Health checks

[chip]

Thought I'd find an existing thread, rather than start a new one.

I've been told I have elevated blood pressure (ave 134/88). Due to family history they are starting me on Amlodipine. I'm about a stone overweight and have set my face to lose this and ensure I get plenty of exercise and cut salt out the diet. I wonder if this would naturally bring the blood pressure down. It's just that I get a bit nervous of new drugs and side effects. I'm already on statins.

I'd be keen to hear other folks experience in this area.

I'd like to have BP that low. I've been taking amolodopine for 14 years. It's a calcium channel blocker so it keeps your blood vessels opened slightly wider than they would be normally. This lowers your BP and if you suffer from cold extremities (Reynauds) may find that reduces. It's particularly helpful in allow blood cells to pass through the smallest vessels so lowering risk of stroke. BP does go up with age, our blood vessels become more like pipes than flexible tubes as we get older. Very rare to get any worrying side effects.

 

[Shropshire Seagull]

They seem to be putting everyone on BP pills at the moment (and statins) - I guess the pills must be cheaper than dealing with the consequences ….your reading really isn’t that high as far as I know and would imagine you could make improvements quickly without medication. A few years back mine was 140/88 (apparently ‘mild hypertension’) at one of my annual medicals, after discussion they suggested reducing the amount of salt in my diet which I did (and switched to Lo-sodium salt) and it was back to 120/80 within a couple of weeks.

When I wad diagnosed as type 1 diabetic 30 odd years ago I was soon introduced to a cocktail of drugs invluding Insulin simvastatin and ramipril.

Distinctly remember my GPs words at the time when I asked how long to take the tablets for? For the rest of your life, and if the NHS could afford it, we'd put the entire population on them.

These are a good drug ....

 

[dazzer6666]

When I wad diagnosed as type 1 diabetic 30 odd years ago I was soon introduced to a cocktail of drugs invluding Insulin simvastatin and ramipril.

Distinctly remember my GPs words at the time when I asked how long to take the tablets for? For the rest of your life, and if the NHS could afford it, we'd put the entire population on them.

These are a good drug ....

One of those GPs that would rather not have any customers?

 

[pearl]

Thought I'd find an existing thread, rather than start a new one.

I've been told I have elevated blood pressure (ave 134/88). Due to family history they are starting me on Amlodipine. I'm about a stone overweight and have set my face to lose this and ensure I get plenty of exercise and cut salt out the diet. I wonder if this would naturally bring the blood pressure down. It's just that I get a bit nervous of new drugs and side effects. I'm already on statins.

I'd be keen to hear other folks experience in this area.

As others have said Ave 134/88 isn't too bad. Also I recall you recently had an operation so that could unsettled things.
With my monitor I try to relax a few minutes. I take a few slow deep breathes too.
Oh, I always discount the first reading. I take another and record that.
I'm 66. Have been taking ramipril for about 25 years. Last year GP added Amlodipine because I was stressed out about my hernia/ hernia repair op.
I was too distracted to notice any side effects.
Good Luck @Eeyore

 

[Zeberdi]

Thought I'd find an existing thread, rather than start a new one.

I've been told I have elevated blood pressure (ave 134/88). Due to family history they are starting me on Amlodipine. I'm about a stone overweight and have set my face to lose this and ensure I get plenty of exercise and cut salt out the diet. I wonder if this would naturally bring the blood pressure down. It's just that I get a bit nervous of new drugs and side effects. I'm already on statins.

I'd be keen to hear other folks experience in this area.

After being rushed to A&E numerous times last year with my BP regularly spiking over 210/115, I was put on 5mg Amlodipine daily because of the stroke risk and kidney damage.

That didn’t reduce my BP which was still averaging at 150-75/110 at rest.

They upped it to 10mg and my average BP is now 126/95 with no spikes above 150.

I have had absolutely no side effects whatsoever due to the Amlodopine (afaik) but some people do report their BP got worse. My parents (Dad deceased ) took Statins and BP medication for years with no problems. Unfortunately Mum’s BP has continually failed to stabilise and she had a stroke a few years ago. I think they give her a cocktail of BP meds now.

As for diet, yes, reducing salt and caffeine was the recommendation from the Consultants too but tbh I struggle with the salt reduction (partly because i lost 45% of my taste with Long Covid and most food tastes bland without salt!)

I have a nurse appointment every 6 months to monitor my BP but like you I have an Amazon sourced cuff at home (not that I bother with it now the batteries only last 5 mins!)

One most important things with trying to keep your BP down, is not to get anxious about your BP!

 

[Shropshire Seagull]

One of those GPs that would rather not have any customers?

I suspect there isn't a GP in the land that would rather have a reduced number of customers.

If medications can help achieve this, is there anything wrong with such an aspiration?

 

[Eeyore]

After being rushed to A&E numerous times last year with my BP regularly spiking over 210/115, I was put on 5mg Amlodipine daily because of the stroke risk and kidney damage.

That didn’t reduce my BP which was still averaging at 150-75/110 at rest.

They upped it to 10mg and my average BP is now 126/95 with no spikes above 150.

I have had absolutely no side effects whatsoever due to the Amlodopine (afaik) but some people do report their BP got worse. My parents (Dad deceased ) took Statins and BP medication for years with no problems. Unfortunately Mum’s BP has continually failed to stabilise and she had a stroke a few years ago. I think they give her a cocktail of BP meds now.

As for diet, yes, reducing salt and caffeine was the recommendation from the Consultants too but tbh I struggle with the salt reduction (partly because i lost 45% of my taste with Long Covid and most food tastes bland without salt!)

I have a nurse appointment every 6 months to monitor my BP but like you I have an Amazon sourced cuff at home (not that I bother with it now the batteries only last 5 mins!)

One most important things with trying to keep your BP down, is not to get anxious about your BP!

Thanks for taking time to respond. And, before anything else to mention, I noticed a post yesterday from a a friend of ours abroad hurling insults at you. A bit unfathomable really (and reported to the mods). You are easily among the posters I enjoy reading the most here. Most supportive and helpful.

Yes, I hate anxiety. It manifested itself last night after I accidentally took one more Codeine pill than I should have. Only 30 mg, and a toxic reaction is unlikely, especially as the original full dose was three hours before. I took my blood pressure reading before I went to bed and it had shot up to 170/100. I decided to ring 111 who said they would get someone to give me a buzz. It dropped to about 145-155 and when the text came through giving an option to cancel the call I did and fell asleep. This morning it is 135-138/85-90.

I think the concern is that I am in the highest heart risk category with heart disease rife in the family at a young age, many not seeing 60/65. So they are suggesting starting Amlodopine now at the 5mg you take. Naturally, I am seeing this as a rational move but anxious over side effects. I get very easily spooked, a complete contrast to yesteryear when I would have happily turned up at an Albion match with one leg hanging off.

The good news this morning was quite comical. I had been worried about a rattling in my car engine that started on Saturday after its service. Naturally, with a mind that goes to extremes, I decided that it was a terminal issue and was going to cost thousands. My mechanic looked at it this morning and saw that the plastic holder that supports the metal bonnet prop had fallen away and the stick was vibrating against the engine as I drove. A temporary fix, £3 for a plastic hook of Ebay and he'll do it when he gets a chance. I laughed at myself coming home, and my bank balance breathed a sigh of relief. I got in and my blood pressure had dropped a little further

 

[dazzer6666]

I suspect there isn't a GP in the land that would rather have a reduced number of customers.

If medications can help achieve this, is there anything wrong with such an aspiration?

I’m sure not, but (anecdotally at least) they seem incredibly keen to get people on to drugs (particularly for high cholesterol and high blood pressure) without trying lifestyle changes first - I’ve got several pals who have managed to avoid medication by making relatively modest changes (and some that weren’t given the option). Benefits of data-led population medication I guess.

 

[chip]

I’m sure not, but (anecdotally at least) they seem incredibly keen to get people on to drugs (particularly for high cholesterol and high blood pressure) without trying lifestyle changes first - I’ve got several pals who have managed to avoid medication by making relatively modest changes (and some that weren’t given the option). Benefits of data-led population medication I guess.

A great long-term source of income for pharma too. You are right in that while these drugs treat symptoms they do not address the underlying disease state. Part of the problem is that we have an increasingly sedentary work/lifestyle with age and many poor dietary choices to make. It's surprisingly hard to get people to do the 5x30 min exercise and to eat five-a-day, even with incentives. You are also right, that for a lot of people some modest changes make a significant difference. Not so long ago statins were being presented as a silver bullet by politicians, before that mindfulness. These drugs are cheaper than human-time for an intervention.

 

[Zeberdi]

Thanks for taking time to respond. And, before anything else to mention, I noticed a post yesterday from a a friend of ours abroad hurling insults at you. A bit unfathomable really (and reported to the mods). You are easily among the posters I enjoy reading the most here. Most supportive and helpful.

Yes, I hate anxiety. It manifested itself last night after I accidentally took one more Codeine pill than I should have. Only 30 mg, and a toxic reaction is unlikely, especially as the original full dose was three hours before. I took my blood pressure reading before I went to bed and it had shot up to 170/100. I decided to ring 111 who said they would get someone to give me a buzz. It dropped to about 145-155 and when the text came through giving an option to cancel the call I did and fell asleep. This morning it is 135-138/85-90.

I think the concern is that I am in the highest heart risk category with heart disease rife in the family at a young age, many not seeing 60/65. So they are suggesting starting Amlodopine now at the 5mg you take. Naturally, I am seeing this as a rational move but anxious over side effects. I get very easily spooked, a complete contrast to yesteryear when I would have happily turned up at an Albion match with one leg hanging off.

The good news this morning was quite comical. I had been worried about a rattling in my car engine that started on Saturday after its service. Naturally, with a mind that goes to extremes, I decided that it was a terminal issue and was going to cost thousands. My mechanic looked at it this morning and saw that the plastic holder that supports the metal bonnet prop had fallen away and the stick was vibrating against the engine as I drove. A temporary fix, £3 for a plastic hook of Ebay and he'll do it when he gets a chance. I laughed at myself coming home, and my bank balance breathed a sigh of relief. I got in and my blood pressure had dropped a little further

Thanks Eyeore.

I really empathise with so much of what you say and side effects of meds are a real issue - your bloods and urine should be monitored while they are finding an optimum level of BP medication for you so mention it to the receptionist at the surgery.

Please try not to worry (I know, I’m probably the last person that should dish that platitude out!) - it may be a while and some trial and error to get your BP to a good level - I was only on 5mg for a few weeks before it was upped to 10mg but Drs all start the regime on the lowest dose and build it up. If 5mg Amodlopine doesn’t do it, they’ll up it to 10mg most likely and if that doesn’t work perhaps give you some form of combination drugs. It helps your BP if you don’t have fluid retention. I’m also on a diuretic to keep my BP down (which makes the Amex a nightmare toilet wise ) - mine went out of control because of all the steroids I was on at the time.

Glad the rattling in the car was sorted.

Now as long as you don’t start rattling with all the meds inside you, you’ll be fine

 

[pearl]

Thanks for taking time to respond. And, before anything else to mention, I noticed a post yesterday from a a friend of ours abroad hurling insults at you. A bit unfathomable really (and reported to the mods). You are easily among the posters I enjoy reading the most here. Most supportive and helpful.

Yes, I hate anxiety. It manifested itself last night after I accidentally took one more Codeine pill than I should have. Only 30 mg, and a toxic reaction is unlikely, especially as the original full dose was three hours before. I took my blood pressure reading before I went to bed and it had shot up to 170/100. I decided to ring 111 who said they would get someone to give me a buzz. It dropped to about 145-155 and when the text came through giving an option to cancel the call I did and fell asleep. This morning it is 135-138/85-90.

I think the concern is that I am in the highest heart risk category with heart disease rife in the family at a young age, many not seeing 60/65. So they are suggesting starting Amlodopine now at the 5mg you take. Naturally, I am seeing this as a rational move but anxious over side effects. I get very easily spooked, a complete contrast to yesteryear when I would have happily turned up at an Albion match with one leg hanging off.

The good news this morning was quite comical. I had been worried about a rattling in my car engine that started on Saturday after its service. Naturally, with a mind that goes to extremes, I decided that it was a terminal issue and was going to cost thousands. My mechanic looked at it this morning and saw that the plastic holder that supports the metal bonnet prop had fallen away and the stick was vibrating against the engine as I drove. A temporary fix, £3 for a plastic hook of Ebay and he'll do it when he gets a chance. I laughed at myself coming home, and my bank balance breathed a sigh of relief. I got in and my blood pressure had dropped a little further

Hi Eeyore
Hope you don't mind me saying this, but checking your BP when anxious is probably not a good idea
I was told to check it at the same time of day and at least 30 mins after eating.
Take care

 

[pearl]

After being rushed to A&E numerous times last year with my BP regularly spiking over 210/115, I was put on 5mg Amlodipine daily because of the stroke risk and kidney damage.

That didn’t reduce my BP which was still averaging at 150-75/110 at rest.

They upped it to 10mg and my average BP is now 126/95 with no spikes above 150.

I have had absolutely no side effects whatsoever due to the Amlodopine (afaik) but some people do report their BP got worse. My parents (Dad deceased ) took Statins and BP medication for years with no problems. Unfortunately Mum’s BP has continually failed to stabilise and she had a stroke a few years ago. I think they give her a cocktail of BP meds now.

As for diet, yes, reducing salt and caffeine was the recommendation from the Consultants too but tbh I struggle with the salt reduction (partly because i lost 45% of my taste with Long Covid and most food tastes bland without salt!)

I have a nurse appointment every 6 months to monitor my BP but like you I have an Amazon sourced cuff at home (not that I bother with it now the batteries only last 5 mins!)

One most important things with trying to keep your BP down, is not to get anxious about your BP!

Sea Salt is supposed to be healthier. Not sure why tbh.

 

[Tom Hark Preston Park]

Can only re-emphasise a stance that has stood me in good stead all these lifelong years: 'Never go to the doctors cos they'll only find something wrong with you'

 

[Dick Swiveller]

Sea Salt is supposed to be healthier. Not sure why tbh.

That isn't really true. It is maybe a bit more pure but is still sodium chloride with all of the adverse affects.

 

[A mex eyecan]

I’m sure not, but (anecdotally at least) they seem incredibly keen to get people on to drugs (particularly for high cholesterol and high blood pressure) without trying lifestyle changes first - I’ve got several pals who have managed to avoid medication by making relatively modest changes (and some that weren’t given the option). Benefits of data-led population medication I guess.

My last cardiologist appointment I was seen by a stand in. I’m 66 and she decided that my BP of 123/75 was ‘high’ and resting pulse of 50 needed looking at as it’s too low. . Anyhow she insisted on Amlodipine at 5mg. Since then (9 months) my BP has stayed exactly the same, however I’m losing leg muscle at a rate and my blood sugars have suddenly gone up to 46 and I’ve been referred to a pre diabetes clinic. Weeks back I did some digging on Amlodipine and find that these can be side effects. I’ve asked my GP if I can come off it, they won’t sanction that until I seve the Cardiologist in August.

Saving grace of the PD clinic is that by cutting starchy carbs and combining proteins, carbs and veg etc, as well as getting in an extra yoga session and 45 mins on an exercise bike each day I’ve lost just over one and a quarter stone in 6 weeks.

 

[dazzer6666]

That isn't really true. It is maybe a bit more pure but is still sodium chloride with all of the adverse affects.

Agree - I was advised to switch to low sodium salt - worked for my slightly elevated BP

 

[Chicken Run]

My last cardiologist appointment I was seen by a stand in. I’m 66 and she decided that my BP of 123/75 was ‘high’ and resting pulse of 50 needed looking at as it’s too low. . Anyhow she insisted on Amlodipine at 5mg. Since then (9 months) my BP has stayed exactly the same, however I’m losing leg muscle at a rate and my blood sugars have suddenly gone up to 46 and I’ve been referred to a pre diabetes clinic. Weeks back I did some digging on Amlodipine and find that these can be side effects. I’ve asked my GP if I can come off it, they won’t sanction that until I seve the Cardiologist in August.

Saving grace of the PD clinic is that by cutting starchy carbs and combining proteins, carbs and veg etc, as well as getting in an extra yoga session and 45 mins on an exercise bike each day I’ve lost just over one and a quarter stone in 6 weeks.

Won’t sanction it, tell them to do one

 

[Thunder Bolt]

My last cardiologist appointment I was seen by a stand in. I’m 66 and she decided that my BP of 123/75 was ‘high’ and resting pulse of 50 needed looking at as it’s too low. . Anyhow she insisted on Amlodipine at 5mg. Since then (9 months) my BP has stayed exactly the same, however I’m losing leg muscle at a rate and my blood sugars have suddenly gone up to 46 and I’ve been referred to a pre diabetes clinic. Weeks back I did some digging on Amlodipine and find that these can be side effects. I’ve asked my GP if I can come off it, they won’t sanction that until I seve the Cardiologist in August.

Saving grace of the PD clinic is that by cutting starchy carbs and combining proteins, carbs and veg etc, as well as getting in an extra yoga session and 45 mins on an exercise bike each day I’ve lost just over one and a quarter stone in 6 weeks.

Are you sure your BP was 123/75? I was put onto Amlodipine last year when I reached 180/85. I was always 120/60 when I was younger even when pregnant.
Sorry for questioning you but it seems strange to me.

 

[Chicken Run]

Are you sure your BP was 123/75? I was put onto Amlodipine last year when I reached 180/85. I was always 120/60 when I was younger even when pregnant.
Sorry for questioning you but it seems strange to me.

And me 123/75 is a superb reading for a 66 yo ffs

 

[Eeyore]

Interesting today that I get a message from the doctor today saying to arrange an appointment as my thyroid reading is high. So I wonder if that is connected. Meanwhile I contact the hospital as the CT angiogram reports have not been returned after a month. The cardiac secretary won't give me the results over the phone. Mad times for me.

I realise that, whilst I have an anxiety disorder these days (It used to be the foolish opposite) that anxiety can cause inflated blood pressure. But I notice that on the NHS pages that nervousness, anxiety and irritability are a symptom of an overactive thyroid. This is getting a little circular.

Blood pressure was as low as 120/79 yesterday, settling around 135/90, but rose as high as 165/100 last night and today and has leveled out around there. I wonder that anxiety is playing a role.