Welcome to Dr. Rowena's Q&A about High Blood Pressure

Ameal supplement for high BP?

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 19 2009

Q: Is Ameal really a good supplement for high blood pressure?

A: Ameal is a supplement of lactotripeptides. Does Ameal work? The answer is not clear. A study on 135 people in the Netherlands concluded that lactotripeptide supplementation does not significantly change blood pressure. Click here for the study. On the other hand, a review of studies published in the British Journal of Nutrition suggests that lactotripeptide supplementation has an effect on elevated blood pressure but does not change normal blood pressure. Click here. Personally, I am not a fan of dietary supplements. I believe it is smarter and more economical to just eat a healthy diet.

Antacids and blood pressure medication

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 19 2009

Q: Can you take an antacid such as prevacol while taking blood pressure medicine?

A: Prevachol is a cholesterol lowering drug, not an antacid. Prevacid is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), not an antacid. Antacids neutralize stomach acids while a PPI blocks their release. Prevacid does not interact with most blood pressure drugs. Recommended amounts of antacids, such as Tums or Rolaids, usually aren’t a problem with blood pressure medication. It is best to double-check with your pharmacist or doctor about an interaction with your specific drugs.

Uncontrolled BP on many meds

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 19 2009

Q: I was diagnosed with high blood pressure in 2003. I tried Clonidine, Accupril and got rebound hypertension and impaired Kidney function. I am currently on the following medications - Tekturna 150 mg x2, Terazosin 10 mg x6, Labetalol x1, Guanfacine, x3, Hydralazine 10 MG x2. My BP now stays high. Can these meds be having an interaction issue, or just too much medicine? Can any of them cause rebound hypertension and make my BP worse? I just ordered the RESPeRATE Machine to see if that will help. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

A: The more medications you take, the more likely you are to have an interaction of some kind. For a good discussion on interactions, click here. The drugs you are taking for your blood pressure are all in different classes of medication and should work together to lower your pressure. Clearly you are having problems. You should show your blood pressure readings to your doctor and discuss your concerns. Rebound hypertension can occur if you stop your drugs or aren’t taking them as prescribed.

Variability of BP readings

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 19 2009

Q: My readings vary a lot, ranging from the healthy zone of 115/76 all the way up to 150/95. Many of my readings are in the 136/86 zone +/- In addition to being a Resperate user for several years, I am also newly taking a betablocker to help control my blood pressure. What is the significance of having such a wide range of readings?

A: Blood pressure is not constant. It varies with activities and natural body rhythms. However, when you repeatedly have elevated readings, it shows your blood pressure is not in good control. I assume this is why you were started on medication.

Diagnosing white coat hypertension

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 19 2009

Q: Each time I take my blood pressure at home it is about 115/63 no more than 128/63. But it is very high at the doctor’s office. She gave me a low dose of high blood pressure medicine. I asked her what my blood pressure would be after I take the medicine and she said 130/80. I didn’t start to take the medicine… why should I take it if my blood pressure is below 130? What would you do?

A: Take your home blood pressure readings to your doctor. You might have what is known as “white coat hypertension”. Your doctor may want to do additional testing, such as 24 hour or ambulatory blood pressure monitoring to be sure you are currently in need of treatment. Newer studies are suggesting that “white coat hypertension”, increases the risk of developing of high blood pressure later in life.

Effect of high altitude on blood pressure

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 19 2009

Q: I recently moved from about 100 feet above sea level to 6500 feet above. Will this affect my blood pressure?

A: Until your body adjusts to a higher altitude by increasing blood oxygen carrying capacity, your heart will have to work harder. This can temporarily affect your blood pressure. High altitude is usually defined as starting at 8000 feet above sea level. At 6500 feet, this will be less of a problem.

The role of Statins (medication)

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 19 2009

Q: Do Statins play a role in lowering blood pressure?

A: Statins are prescribed to lower blood fats. They help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. Although they are not considered a treatment for high blood pressure, recent studies have shown they also lower blood pressure.

Measuring BP at doctor’s office

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 03 2009

Q: Is there a reason why most doctors’ offices use a digital device to measure blood pressure rather than the manual type? When I was younger the nurse would hold your arm to heart level and take your pressure, now they just put the cuff on and press the button with the arm hanging which gives me higher numbers. Does it matter where the arm is placed?

A: I do not know what type of equipment is the most frequently used to monitor blood pressure in the office setting. However, it is important that blood pressure be taken properly to get an accurate reading. Many articles have suggested that blood pressure is frequently not measured correctly, even in a doctor’s office. The American Heart Association position is that the upper arm should be supported at the level of the heart. You should discuss your experience with your doctor. You will be doing the practice a great service.

Potassium supplementation

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 03 2009

Q: I have been following the DASH diet. I’m finding it impossible to reach the K goal of 4.5 to 6.5 gm. especially limiting calories to 1200-1600 daily. Any suggestions? I’m eating foods listed highest in K daily. Would K supplements be recommended? What dosage?

A: Adequate potassium intake is felt to have a positive effect on blood pressure. Potassium supplements can be found in most grocery stores. Ask your doctor for a recommendation as there is no official guideline on supplementation.

Frustrated with high blood pressure

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 03 2009

Q: I’m an active 46 yr old African man. I’ve had high BP since I was a teenager, but I’ve also been active all my life doing sports. I have been running 3 miles every other day. Despite all these efforts I’ve been making (including the medications), my blood pressure is still high. I had a check up with my Dr last week, and my cholesterol has also elevated a bit. I’m frustrated, and don’t know what else to do!

A: Ask your doctor about using the RESPeRATE. This device has been proven in clinical studies to lower blood pressure. It is simple to use and has no side effects. Talk to your doctor about diet. Perhaps increasing the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables and lowering your salt intake would be beneficial.