How to manage recurring low blood pressure and dizziness?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been taking Atenolol 50 mg for the past two years. Recently, I have been experiencing low blood pressure; yesterday, it measured 115/65 mmHg. I have also been feeling dizzy. Last month, I experienced dizziness along with a blood pressure reading of 110/65 mmHg, which lasted for four to five days. Unfortunately, these symptoms have recurred this month. Additionally, my fasting blood sugar level is 115 mg/dL, and my triglyceride level is 240 mg/dL.

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I would like to ask a few questions. Do you ever experience chest pain associated with palpitations? Is there any family history of heart disease? How long have you been taking Atenolol? Have you experienced shortness of breath or swelling in your legs and feet?

I would like you to undergo the following tests: an echocardiogram (echo) to assess the heart's pumping action and an electrocardiogram (ECG). Your triglyceride levels are elevated. My advice is to take Atorvastatin once daily after meals for a month. Please consult your specialist doctor to discuss adjusting the dosage of Atenolol, and ensure your blood pressure is monitored regularly.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your answers; they helped me understand the problem more deeply.

These episodes of dizziness and low blood pressure are most likely due to poor heart pumping action, which is why I advised you to undergo those tests. Atenolol reduces heart rate, which contributes further to the issue. We cannot stop it immediately, so I recommended reducing the dosage. Ideally, it should be replaced with another antihypertensive medication, but we cannot make any changes until the reports are available. Please follow up with the test results.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.