Managing High Blood Pressure: What to Do After Taking Medication on an Empty Stomach

Q: Managing High Blood Pressure: What to Do After Taking Medication on an Empty Stomach

Hello, Mei-Shan： Based on the analysis of your letter, generally speaking, after taking antihypertensive medication for a period of time, the body should have adapted to the blood pressure-lowering effects. <br>It is unusual to experience dizziness and sweating after taking blood

Vomiting after taking blood pressure medication on an empty stomach?

Grandpa has high blood pressure.
This morning, he measured his blood pressure at 185 and took his antihypertensive medication without having breakfast.
He then felt dizzy and sweaty, and after taking a sip of milk, he vomited.

1.
Should the medication be taken after breakfast or can it be taken on an empty stomach?
2.
What should he eat in such a situation?
3.
If his blood pressure drops, is it okay for him to sleep immediately?
4.
How can I help make Grandpa more comfortable?

Mei Shan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/16

Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine

Hello, Mei-Shan: Based on the analysis of your letter, generally speaking, after taking antihypertensive medication for a period of time, the body should have adapted to the blood pressure-lowering effects.
It is unusual to experience dizziness and sweating after taking blood pressure medication, and then vomiting after drinking a sip of milk.
At this moment, it is advised to refrain from eating, and you can sit or lie down to rest while monitoring your blood pressure.
If your blood pressure is too low, for example, if the systolic pressure is less than 100 mmHg, it is recommended to seek medical attention.
If resting improves the dizziness or vomiting, you may try eating a small amount of food; if that does not help, visiting the hospital for examination would be a better choice.
Generally, medications, unless specifically indicated otherwise (such as gastric medications), should be taken after meals.
If the medication causes excessively low blood pressure, it is advised to sit or lie down to rest, and if symptoms do not improve, seeking medical attention is recommended.
Thank you for your letter, and I wish you and your grandfather good health and happiness!

Reply Date: 2020/01/16

More Info

Managing high blood pressure, especially in elderly patients, requires careful consideration of medication timing, dietary habits, and overall health management. In the case of your grandfather, who experienced a significant spike in blood pressure followed by symptoms of dizziness and sweating after taking his medication on an empty stomach, there are several important points to address.

1. Medication Timing: Generally, many antihypertensive medications can be taken on an empty stomach, but this can vary depending on the specific medication. Some medications may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or other side effects when taken without food. It is advisable to follow the prescribing physician's instructions regarding whether to take the medication with or without food. If your grandfather's medication is causing adverse effects when taken on an empty stomach, it may be beneficial to discuss this with his healthcare provider to determine if a different medication or a change in timing is necessary.

2. Managing Symptoms: If your grandfather experiences dizziness and nausea after taking his medication, it is important to ensure he is hydrated. Drinking clear fluids, such as water or electrolyte solutions, can help. If he is unable to keep fluids down, it may be necessary to seek medical attention. In some cases, light snacks that are easy to digest, such as crackers or toast, may help settle the stomach. However, if he continues to vomit or feels unwell, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

3. Resting After Medication: If your grandfather's blood pressure drops significantly after taking his medication, it is generally safe for him to rest. However, he should avoid lying flat if he feels dizzy; instead, he should sit or lie down with his head elevated. This position can help prevent falls and provide comfort. If he feels excessively weak or faint, it is important to monitor him closely and seek medical assistance if necessary.

4. Comfort Measures: To help your grandfather feel more comfortable, ensure he is in a calm and quiet environment. Encourage him to take slow, deep breaths to help alleviate feelings of dizziness or anxiety. If he enjoys certain activities, such as listening to music or reading, these can be soothing distractions. Additionally, keeping the room well-ventilated and at a comfortable temperature can help improve his overall comfort.

In summary, managing high blood pressure in elderly patients requires a comprehensive approach that includes proper medication management, dietary considerations, and supportive care. It is essential to communicate any adverse effects experienced after taking medication to his healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust his treatment plan. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, can also contribute to better blood pressure control. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to medication or treatment plans.

Similar Q&A

Managing Hypertension: What to Do After Stopping Blood Pressure Meds?

I previously took medication for high blood pressure, but I stopped taking it for a while. Recently, my blood pressure spiked above 140/80, sometimes reaching 150, and I experienced discomfort in my heart, which led me to seek medical attention at a clinic where I was prescribed ...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, it seems that your elevated blood pressure may be due to anxiety. Typically, blood pressure increases to levels of 140-150 mmHg do not cause discomfort unless it reaches 180-200 mmHg. The strong heartbeat and shortness of breath you are experiencing are likely related to a...

Managing Postprandial Hypotension: Medication Timing and Effectiveness

Hello, my mother is 76 years old. I would like to ask about her previous blood pressure medication, which was Shumaiyou 40/5/12.5 mg. However, she has been experiencing postprandial hypotension symptoms for the past two months, feeling dizzy after meals. She visited the hospital ...

Dr. Cai Guiqin reply Cardiology
I recommend that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Consider consulting a cardiologist at a major hospital. Wishing you good health. Thank you!

Managing Weight Loss and Dizziness After Blood Pressure Medication

Hello Dr. Liu, about two years ago, my blood pressure suddenly spiked to nearly 200. Since then, I have started taking antihypertensive medications to control my blood pressure. Currently, I take one pill of Amlodipine and half a pill of Candesartan daily, and my blood pressure i...

Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello A-Rong, According to your letter, avoiding high-calorie foods and not overeating during meals will help you approach your ideal weight after a period of persistence. Considering the average height of Taiwanese men is 173.5 cm, a weight of 78 kg results in a BMI of 25.9, wh...

Managing Sudden Blood Pressure Increases: When to Consult Your Doctor

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my situation. I am a patient with hypertension and I am currently taking Amlodipine 5/160 mg, half a tablet of Clonidine 2 mg, 5 mg of Bisoprolol, and half a tablet of Rosuvastatin 20 mg. Recently, due to weight loss, my doctor advised me ...

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Currently, there is no need to adjust the medication based on the blood pressure readings. It is recommended to modify lifestyle habits, engage in regular exercise, and maintain a light diet. However, if blood pressure continues to rise, it is advisable to visit a hospital for a ...