medication

[Referee16]

I just started taking my blood pressure meds again after a 6 month break.  I take bystolic and enalpril.  I notice that I am getting these pressure headaches that come on when I get stressed.  Is this normal?  My blood pressure has gone from 165/102 to 139/77(medicated).

[ed34]

I was the very same, every medication the Doctors tried on me had bad effects because I seemed to be very sensitive to them. In the end, we tried Ramipril, BUT started on very small doses, just 2.5mg a day. After a couple of weeks we built it up to 2.5mg twice a day. I was able to tolerate that quite well. I think my initial problem was that my body had been used to high blood pressure for 50 years, so to suddenly lower it was uncomfortable. So I think the key is probably to lower it gently and slowly, not just force it down in one hit. It certainly worked for me.

[nonnac02]

I had to change my blood pressure medicine and everyone I have taken gives me a severe headache like a migraine.  I have it about the same time and it very hard to get rid of.  At this point, I have tried about six differentt medicines.  A couple I took for about a month before the headaches begin.
I am searching for a solution.

[ed34]

Is your Doctor aware of your lower back pains? I'm asking because it may be wise to have a few blood tests to check your kidney function. The kidneys play quite a big role in controlling your blood pressure.

[Referee16]

I hope I adjust soon I have lower back pain and GI issues.

[ed34]

A sudden drop in blood pressure due to medication can cause headaches for a few days while your body adjusts. If it persists, I would do as alleycat2 suggests, ask for a different brand.

[alleycat2]

Your pressure is still high.  Many times you have to ask your doctor about different BP meds. Some will work on you and some will not.

[Referee16]

I quite taking due to the side effects.  Is it normal to get headaches when stsrting this medication?

[ed34]

165/102 is in the middle of the moderate band, on its way to severe. Yes, blood pressure that high can cause headaches and can also cause long term damage to your arteries. You are wise to take your blood pressure medication. Did your Doctor tell you to take a break for so long? I assume not because any competent Doctor would have noticed the increase well before now and put you back onto medication. Your systolic pressure is high-normal now and your diastolic is normal-optimal. This is much much better.