How can high blood pressure be effectively controlled?
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
My mother is 58 years old and has had high blood pressure for the last six years. She has been taking Amlodipine and Atenolol daily since then, and everything was fine until recently. Over the past two months, she has experienced high blood pressure readings three to four times. We underwent several blood and urine tests, which showed a few pus cells and some urinary infections that were nearly resolved after completing a course of antibiotics.
However, fluctuations in her blood pressure continue. Last week, it rose to 150 on the upper side. My questions are: has her body stopped responding to the current medication since she has been taking it for six years? Is there a need to increase the dose, or should we consider changing the medication?
Please advise.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Did you check her kidney function for creatinine levels? Are they high? What is her weight? Yes, blood pressure treatment is not a one-day task. For her age, I would aim for a blood pressure target of around 140/90 mmHg. Occasionally, a blood pressure reading of 150 mmHg is acceptable. Managing weight gain, reducing salt intake, stress management, practicing yoga, and maintaining an active lifestyle will help control her blood pressure in conjunction with medication. Since she is currently taking only one medication, there is significant potential for either a dosage increase or a change in her medication.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
Her weight is around 103 pounds, and she is not overweight. All the general tests came back normal, and I believe the kidney tests were also fine. However, when her blood pressure rose to 150, she felt very uneasy, experiencing symptoms such as headaches and nausea. Can you suggest any changes to her medication or an increase in the dosage?
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
What is her current dosage of Amlodipine? If it is 5 mg, I suggest either increasing the dosage or adding other medications like Olmesartan. It would be best to visit her treating doctor for a prescription. Additionally, schedule monthly check-ups and follow up regularly with her doctor.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
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