Low heart rate and high blood pressure

[DBNChicago]

I am a 58 year old male with a low heart rate and high blood pressure. The heart rate hovers around 50 beats per minute, and has been measured in the low thirties during the night. I've known of this condition for the last 20+ years.

More recently my blood pressure has been elevated (e.g. 155/95, or even 160/104) and my doctor has given me a diagnosis of hypertension.

Also, during recent months I've experienced several (a couple of times a month) episodes of light headedness unexpectedly (while sitting, standing, driving).

Here's the question: can high blood pressure be caused by low heart rate, and if so, is a pacemaker a likely solution for me...i.e. might a pacemaker raise my heart rate, lower my blood pressure and resolve the lightheadedness?

Thanks. DBNChicago

[Cleveland Clinic]

Chicago,

Thanks for the post.

Low heart rate will not cause high blood pressure.  It could be related as a presentation of cerbrovascular disease, or thyroid disease. I would also look into the cause of your dizziness and whether it were low  heart rate related.

I would discuss your symptoms with your physician.

good luck

[Cin7654]

A related discussion, Can Bradycardia cause hypertension? was started.