Question: I am on medication for high blood pressure, but it doesn't seem to be working. Why? I seem to be doing all the right things — I eat a healthy diet, exercise, and meditate. I am 84. Is THAT my problem?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Being 84 is not your problem, so relax and don't lose sleep over your blood pressure problems. While I'm not seeing the pressure readings you are worried about, it doesn't sound like you have worrisome headaches, dizziness, or chest pains that would suggest a major problem.
If your doctor is having you follow the new blood pressure guidelines, your hypertension should be controlled by the third month unless some underlying condition is present that needs further attention. Be sure the medications you are taking correspond with the published recommendations and you should be at your target BP of 150/90 or less.
Failure to achieve blood pressure control after one drug has been sequentially added each month for three months (for a total of three drugs) should generate a cardiology or renal consultation for your hypertension management.
Sometimes blood pressure elevates because of underlying diseases, so work with your doctor to be sure the changes you have already started are effective, and go easy on sodium in your diet.
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