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.

Benefits and risks of low dose aspirin

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 08 2009

Q: Quite lately, I heard a doctor on Fox news extra indicate that the continued use of low dose aspirin to mitigate cardiovascular risks, has been researched and found to be pose some complications. He advised that the use be discontinued. I had to stop the use of low dose Aspirin. What do you think?

A: Low dose aspirin can cause serious bleeding. The risk of a serious bleed needs to be weighed against your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Not everyone has a high enough risk of a heart attack or stroke to make it worth the risk of serious bleeding from aspirin. In addition, recent studies have shown that some people don’t get any benefit from taking aspirin. You should make the decision about taking or not taking aspirin with the help of your doctor.

Treating uncontrolled high blood pressure

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 08 2009

Q: My BP is high: 200+/-10 over 120+/- 10 I have tried all the meds made and have been checked for every known cause with no results. They cause drug induced gout/other problems. I have been to a number of clinics with no result. Will this machine [Resperate] work for me?

A: RESPeRATE has been clinically proven to lower blood pressure. Studies have shown that the higher the blood pressure, the better the reduction expected. It should help you control your pressure. However, your blood pressure is so high you might still require medication to be in good control. Discuss a trial with your doctor.

Lack of health insurance and treating hypertension

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Sep 30 2009

Q: My blood has been running high for about 20 years and still the clinic I am going to is trying medicine after medicine. I do not believe in popping pills every time you turn around. I know I need to lose weight and I am doing something about it. I do not have health insurance and I feel like I would be getting better treatment if I did. What can I do?

A: I support healthcare reform. I feel it is very important for people like you to have access to basic health care services and preventive care. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to continue to lose weight and exercise regularly.

Ecosprin gold and flatulence

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Sep 23 2009

Q: I am taking Metapur AM 10mg and Ecosprin gold for about one and a half years and my BP is in control. But I am facing a problem with farting resulting in lot of embarrassment. Please advise me if this problem is because of the above medication and what can I do?

A: Ecosprin gold is a drug used to prevent clot formation. It helps prevent heart attacks and strokes. One of the side effects of the drug is increased gas. You should discuss with your doctor, changing how you take your medicine. Sometimes changing the time of day and taking your medicine with food can help with this problem.

Drug assistance programs

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Aug 27 2009

Q: How can I keep my blood pressure down without the use of meds? I plan on talking to my doctor about Resperate however my money is limited at this moment. I have been taking lisinopril and until I can get to my doctor I need a way to keep my blood pressure low without the use of meds. Basically I cannot afford the doc to continue my meds.

A: Call your doctor. Most doctors will work with you to find a drug you can afford, provide you with samples, and/or put you in touch with drug assistance programs. On the web go to: http://www.pparx.org/

Accupuncture and blood pressure

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Aug 27 2009

Q: Just wondering if you think acupuncture is a good option for lowering high blood pressure. Would acupuncture be a good Resperate adjunct?

A: RESPeRATE use is not a contraindication to acupuncture. I have a friend who is both a licensed acupuncturist and a board certified orthopedic surgeon. He reports to me that he has been successful in treating mild hypertension. He is always quick to point out that the skill of an acupuncturist affects outcome. Scientific studies on the topic are limited. To learn more about this click here.

Treating atrial fibrillation

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jul 29 2009

Q: Has anyone ever given any feedback about the effects of using Resperate for someone with Atrial Fibrillation? I have recently developed it and wondered if use of the Resperate might have a favorable effect. I use it daily, sometimes twice a day.

A: The RESPeRATE is not a treatment for atrial fibrillation. If your heart beat isn’t staying controlled, go see your doctor. Over time, it can become harder to control atrial fibrillation. Drugs often need to be increased or changed. Sometimes surgical ablation is recommended. To learn more about this common problem, click here.

Please Note: Do not use RESPeRATE without consulting your physician if you suffer or have suffered in the past from: Active ischemic heart disease/unstable angina, bradycardia, severe congestive heart failure, chronic atrial fibrillation, stroke resulting in permanent impairment, chronic renal failure, severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis and emphysema, major organ failure, sleep paralysis, have a pacemaker or if you are pregnant.

Preparing for your visit to the doctor

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jul 29 2009

Q: My wife’s blood pressure is sometimes low and sometimes high. So many times I have consulted the doctors but without success. Please help!

A: Go with your wife on her next visit to the doctor. Together you should make a list of questions you want answered. Hand the list to your doctor at the start of the appointment. This will help keep you and the doctor focused on what you are really worried about. Sometimes people get nervous talking to a doctor and fail to mention everything. Blood pressure is not constant. It varies depending upon your activities. If her pressure is going above normal, she might want to consider trying the RESPeRATE.