ARBs

[clarky99]

My endocrinologist recently recommended I go on the Angiotensin Receptor Blocker Valsartan to treat slightly elevated blood pressure (135 - 140 /80).  Does anyone have any experience with this or similar medications.  Apparently it is well tolerated and there should limited side effects.
I have also ehard that ARBs and ACE Inhibitors are routinely being perscribed pre-emptively in the states to prevent kidney damage, among other things.

[JDRF-VOL-LS]

Hello clarky99,
We are volunteers and not medical professionals, so do weigh whatever you read here (or anywhere online!) with what your physician has told you.

You are correct that, here in the States, diabetics are often given ACE or ARBs to help protect the small blood vessels.  The thinking goes that if we can keep our blood pressure in the normal range (120/80 ish), then the tiny vessels feeding our eyes & kidneys are protected from damage.  Thus, those organs are protected.

There are so many BP medications available that, if one class of meds doesn't suit you (for example, if you get annoying side-effects), you'll likely do well with another one.  Exercise is a great way to lower BP and if your doctor approves of moderate exercise, you might consider that as an additional mechanism to keep your BP in a reasonable range for decades to come.

Good luck!