Difficult to control HBP

[Neener44]

I am 46 and have had problems controlling my blood pressure since my early 30's. I am female and moderately overweight now, but was not overweight in my 20's or 30's. I also had problems with my blood pressure during pregnancies and after deliveries. I had toxemia during my first pregnancy at age 23 and it took months before my blood pressure was back to normal after delivering full term twins. I have been on several different bp medications and none have really worked for any length of time, even combinations of bp meds (thyazide, beta blocker, ace inhibitor). I have mild lvh. How long can I go on like this without having serious problems? My blood pressure readings at home and in the doctor's office are 140/90 to 184/108 depending on the day. I do exercise and eat a healthy diet. I also have NCS and IST and take sotalol to control my heart rate. Thanks

[CCF-M.D.-KE]

Dear neener99,

It sounds as if you have hypertension (high blood pressure) which is defined as 2 separate blood pressure readings of 140/90 or greater.  I would recommend avoiding salt in your diet and starting a regular exercise program. Better physical conditioning and weight loss, in addition to the medication you are currently taking may have an effect on your blood pressure.
High blood pressure increases your risk of stoke, heart attack and kidney dysfunction. I would discuss with your doctor the concerns you have about your blood pressure and maybe further increasing the doses of your antihypertensive medication.

Thanks for your question,


CCF-MD-KE