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Avalide and sleepiness

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Aug 17 2009

Q: Is the drug, Avalide, known to make you sleepy/drowsy during the day? I’m experiencing a lot of this now that I’m on Avalide.

A: Avalide is known to cause fatigue. You should discuss your reaction to this medication with your doctor. I would hate for you to get into an accident because of excessive daytime sleepiness.

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Snoring and hypertension

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jul 06 2009

Q: Does snoring increase blood pressure?

A: Snoring has been associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure. This is especially true if the snoring is a result of sleep apnea. Click here to learn more.

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Hypertension drugs and sleep

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jun 17 2009

Q: I have been taking 100 mg of metoprolol for 6 weeks after taking 50 mg for 8 weeks prior to the increase. After the 2nd week, I had difficulty sleeping which has gotten progressively worse, so my doctor changed my med to 10 mg of amlodipine. Will this help and what else can I do?

A: Time will tell if the Amlodipine will work for you without any side effects. Ask your doctor about using the RESPeRATE. It has been clinically proven to lower blood pressure and many users report that it also relaxes them as they prepare to fall asleep.

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RESPeRATE and relaxation

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

Q: Is it advantageous to use the Resperate for non-high blood pressure issues? My son (age 21) has problems falling asleep and once he is asleep, he wakes up often.

A: The RESPeRATE is not harmful to use. It does not have side effects. Your son may find it very soothing to use, as it is indicated as a relaxation treatment for the reduction of stress. Many people report they sleep better with RESPeRATE use. My children have used the RESPeRATE to lower anxiety associated with taking major tests.

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Falling asleep with RESPeRATE

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: May 22 2009

Q: What happens if I fall asleep using Resperate?

A: Many people report falling asleep while using the RESPeRATE. It is very soothing and relaxing to use. Falling asleep while using the RESPeRATE, is not harmful to your body. That session you may not get in enough therapeutic minutes needed for blood pressure lowering. You can always add an additional session, so just enjoy the good night’s rest.

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Sleep Apnea and CPAP machine

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

Q: I’m 178 cm, 78 kg and suffer from Sleep Apnoea and nocturnal hypertension due to heavy snoring. My CPAP machine helps to enhance oxygen level but doesn’t lower BP unless I strap my lower jaw tightly to prevent snoring. Medicines do not help. What do you suggest?

A: To get complete benefits from CPAP, the device must be fitted and used correctly. As you need to strap your jaw tightly, I am concerned about the fit of your device. You may want to visit a respiratory therapist to ensure that you are using your device properly and have a mask that is well suited to your face.

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How dreams affect blood pressure

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Dec 09 2008

Q: When I am asleep I often have dreams where I am running or dreams that are frightening. Does that affect my blood pressure?

A: Blood pressure elevates with nightmares. The elevation is a protective mechanism of the body to prepare for fleeing or combat in threatening situations. Normally this increase in pressure does not cause problems. However, if you have high blood pressure, significant increases at night could cause problems. You should talk to your doctor.

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Help with sleep apnea

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 02 2008

Q: I have Sleep Apnea, but cannot afford to buy a CPAP machine. Is there anything else to help Sleep Apnea?

A: Sometimes not sleeping on your back will help. People have come up with clever ways to keep from rolling over onto their backs such as sewing tennis balls onto the back of their pajamas. If you are overweight, losing weight will help. You also might want to consider wearing an oral appliance. Depending on the type you need, this solution may be less expensive than a CPAP machine. Most health insurance plans cover CPAP machines provided they are felt to be medically necessary. For more information about sleep apnea and treatment options click here.

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