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Heart Disease  (Expert Forum)
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Re: Poorly Controlled HBP 189/105 on 50 mg Atenolol and Zestoretic 10/12.5
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Re: Poorly Controlled HBP 189/105 on 50 mg Atenolol and Zestoretic 10/12.5

by Cleveland Clinic, MD, Jan 01, 1995 12:00AM
Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - CRC on July 10, 1998 at 00:23:53:

In Reply to: Poorly Controlled HBP 189/105 on 50 mg Atenolol and Zestoretic 10/12.5 posted by Amanda on July 09, 1998 at 04:02:01:






I am 51 yo WF, over wgt by 70 lbs, life-long non-smoker, light social drinker (wine maybe once or twice a week. Stressful jobs and personal life for past 15-20 years.  At age 48, found to have HBP of 185/105--during a clinical trial study evaluation for anxiety disorders (double-blind, placebo-controlled study of klonopin). Study coordinator suggested it might be stress-induced.  After the study, problem persisted.  Had complete physical in Dec 97 significant for HBP with HDL/LDL ratio in an acceptable range.  LDL was 257+, but HDL was low enough that the ratio was in an acceptable range.  Have tried dietary fat restrictions for 6-8 weeks to lower LDL with no effect.  Have developed degenerative arthritis (RA & gout have been ruled out) in both pelvic joints, so walking is often painful or very uncomfortable.  Blood pressure remains poorly controlled on atenolol 50 mg qd from Dec 97 to May 98.  Added 2 tabs zestoretic 20/12.5 qd. in mid-May.  BP still 184/105 - 157/97. Any suggestions, ideas? Worried about taking NSAIDs with the lisinopril d/t side effects.
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Dear  Amanda,
Topic Area: High Blood Pressure
There are many medications and combinations of medications that can be used to control blood pressure.  It is crucial that you keep your blood pressure under control and you must be diligent to work with your doctor to find the right combination of medications that work for you.   You are right to be concerned about NSAIDS as these can cause high blood pressure.  Ask your doctor is there is something you can substitute for them.
Below is some additional information on high blood pressure.
High blood pressure, or hypertension , is defined in an adult as a blood pressure
greater than or equal to 140 mm Hg systolic pressure or greater than or equal to
90 mm Hg diastolic pressure. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of
mercury (mm Hg). High blood pressure directly increases the risk of
coronary heart disease (which leads to heart attack) and stroke (or brain
attack), especially along with other risk factors.
High blood pressure can occur in children or adults, but is particularly prevalent in
blacks, middle-aged and elderly people, obese people, heavy drinkers and women who are taking oral
contraceptives. Individuals with diabetes mellitus gout or kidney disease have a higher frequency of
hypertension.
How do salt and sodium affect high blood pressure?
Most Americans consume far more salt (sodium) than their bodies need. Heavy sodium consumption increases blood pressure in some people, leading to high blood pressure. People who are diagnosed with high blood pressure are often placed on restricted-sodium diets.
Reducing sodium (or salt) consumption may help lower blood pressure in some people. Your doctor may
recommend a sodium (salt) restricted diet. This will mean you'll have to avoid salty foods and cut down on the amount of salt you use in cooking and at the table.
How does being overweight affect high blood pressure?
Studies have shown that body weight, changes in body weight over time, and skinfold thickness are related to changes in blood pressure levels. These factors have been linked to the subsequent rise and development of high blood pressure. People who are overweight are more likely to have high-normal to mild high blood
pressure.
Physical inactivity is a risk factor for heart disease. In addition, a sedentary or inactive lifestyle tends to
contribute to obesity, a risk factor for both high blood pressure and heart disease. Regular exercise helps
control weight and lower blood pressure. Don't be afraid to be active  exercise should definitely be part of your daily program. Besides helping to reduce your risk of heart attack, it can also help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Statistics show that many people who have high blood pressure are also overweight. If you are overweight or have gained weight over time, you'll be advised to cut down on calories and lose weight. Your doctor can prescribe a diet that's right for you.
If you're given a diet, follow it closely, including any recommendations about reducing your consumption of alcohol. Alcoholic drinks are high in non-nutritious calories, so if you're trying to lose weight, avoid alcoholic beverages. Often when people lose weight, their blood pressure drops as well.
How does medicine help control high blood pressure?
For some people, weight loss, sodium reduction and other lifestyle changes won't lower high blood pressure as much as it needs to be lowered. If that's your situation, you will probably need to take medication. Many medications are available to reduce high blood pressure. Some get rid of excess fluid and sodium (salt). Others relax constricted blood vessels. Others prevent blood vessels from constricting and narrowing. Because there is usually no cure for high blood pressure, treatment generally must be carried out for life. If treatment is stopped, the pressure may rise again.
Information provided here is for general educational purposes only. Only your doctor can provide specific diagnoses and treatments. If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please Call 1 - 800 - CCF - CARE for an appointment at Desk F15 with a cardiologist

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