Hi,
I'm a 31yo female, large, with a strong family history of heart disease (my mom died from CHF) and diabetes (almost every member of my family - it took my dad after it took his leg).
About two years ago I saw my doctor - my MA, actually - and she was fantastic. My blood pressure was borderline. She was working with me to prepare for all of my insurance company's hoops for weight loss surgery. At that time, she told me she wanted me to come back in to have it checked twice more before she considered medication, and scheduled me for the next month. Then, she retired. I've had a hard time getting an appointment since then, and haven't been back.
I finally got in there last week and met one of the actual doctors for the first time. I was frustrated, late, and having a bad day, and he took my blood pressure right after I was handed a 3 year old bill that my insurance company rejected (??? and I can do what about it NOW???). My blood pressure was still borderline, but lower than it was the first time.
He immediately started me on Diovan HCT. I have not taken the medication yet, because I have some concerns and haven't been able to reach him...not that I felt like he was listening to me anyway. He did have blood drawn, and after calling daily I was finally able to get ahold of my test results; my WBC count was elevated (could that be contributing to the rise?) but my glucose and lipids were normal. Those are both major watch points for me because of my size and family history. I understand that the type of diuretic in the medication can cause glucose and lipid levels to rise, though I don't understand why...or if the 12.5mg included is enough to even cause those issues. I'm afraid of breaking two things that are working to fix something that I'm not totally positive is broken. He was very adamant that I take it, and sent a prescription too just in case I couldn't return before my samples run out.
Should I just take the medication anyway and assume he's right because he's the doctor, or wait until I can talk to him (or find another doctor) to be sure I really have a consistent problem with my blood pressure? Even if I do need it (and I'll take it if I do) - should I wait until I find someone who I know will work with me to minimize the potential side effects?
Thanks!
Marie