How can I know if I have HCM

Last week, I went to my OBGYN for a PAP and the extreme pain during the exam makes my dr. believe I have a kidney stone problem. (Test results were normal)  My blood pressure in the office was 207/130. I have never had BP problems in the past. I am 61, female and about 25 lbs overweight... (I am working on the weight issue.)

Shocked at this BP level, Dr. immediately prescribed triamterene and lisinopril and told me to contact an internist.. But on my insurance plan,  I cannot get appt for 5-6 weeks.  In the meantime, I have been reading about these medications on the internet... scary....  My mother (age 89) was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardio myopathy for which she had a successful septal ablation procedure when it was still experimental, 13 yrs ago (at Cleveland Clinic).  I have told this to my doctors over the years but no one ever suggested an echocardiagram for me. Is there a relationship between my high BP and HCM, and is there a way to know if I have HCM without the echocardiagram? Is the triamterene the right medication for me if I have HCM?

Thanks...

[kenkeith]

Yes, there is very high probability high BP will cause HCM, but usually it has a genetic component and/or the underlying cause is unknown.  The medication prescribed is for your high blood pressure. The lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor that dilates the vessels and the heart's workload is decreased, and the triamterene med reduces blood volume as a diuretic which also reduces the heart's workload.  An inexpensive but less reliable test for a diagnosis of HCM is an EKG, but an echo is better and I am surprised there hasn't been an echo based on your family history.

I have been taking lisinopril for 7 years and thye BP is undercontrol, and there are no side effects that I am aware.

Thanks for sharing.  If you have any further questions or comments you are invited to respond.  Take care,

Ken