Leg muscle ache and Benazepril
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Apr 28 2009
Q: I’m 63 years old and have been a distance runner and into fitness for over 40 years. My elevated BP occurs most frequently under stress and in the Dr’s office when my BP is being taken. I’m currently taking Benazepril HCL 40 mg once a day. Could this be causing leg muscle heaviness and ache when running? When not excerising, I have no symptoms.
A: Your blood pressure medication spares potassium. Depending upon your food intake, your potassium levels may be getting too high. A symptom of too much potassium can be muscle fatigue. Exercise may be making you more aware of this symptom. Make sure your doctor is aware that you are experiencing leg discomfort. Further evaluation may be needed.
Tags: benazepril, benazepril HCL, blood pressure medication, cramps, Diet & Exercise, exercise, leg muscle ache, low potassium, potassium rich food, potassium sparing, Taking BP MedsLeg cramping and blood pressure medication
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Dec 18 2008
Q: I take a blood pressure pill verapamil 180mg and a water pill. Lately I have been cramping in my legs. My husband thinks my potassium may be too low. He also takes BP medication but is also on potassium pills. What do you think?
A: Leg cramps can be caused by low levels of minerals such as potassium, calcium, or magnesium. Some diuretics cause the body to lose potassium. As your husband has been prescribed potassium supplementation, it is likely he is on that kind of water pill. Your diuretic may be different. I suggest you talk to your doctor. In the meantime, try eating a banana every morning and see it you notice a difference. Bananas are naturally high in potassium. Also eating bananas may help you maintain a healthy weight. For more information: click here.
Tags: blood pressure medication, diuretics, leg cramping, low potassium, Taking BP Meds, verapamilBenefits of coconut water
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 22 2008
Q: What are the health benefits of coconut water?
A: Coconut water is a good source of potassium. Low potassium intake may be a risk factor for getting high blood pressure. In addition, some studies have shown that potassium supplementation can lower blood pressure. I believe this is why some websites claim that coconut water consumption is effective for lowering blood pressure. Coconuts and the water they contain are a food staple in many countries where coconuts are readily available.
Tags: blood pressure, coconut water, Diet & Exercise, high potassium, hypertension, low potassium, potassium
