Managing Blood Pressure and Medication After Heart Stent Placement

Kanken 1.25 mm

Two months ago, I had an acute myocardial infarction and received a stent.
I do not have heart failure.
The doctor prescribed Concor 1.25 mg, Plavix, and Rosuvastatin.
While taking Concor, my blood pressure has been around 95/65, heart rate 70, and I have experienced dizziness all day.
I stopped taking it for two days, and my blood pressure has been around 105/70, with a heart rate of about 80.
I am unsure if stopping the medication on my own will cause any issues, as my next follow-up appointment is at the end of December.
Therefore, I am consulting Dr.
Wu in advance.
Thank you.

You, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/29

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology

If your blood pressure is too low or your heart rate is too slow, this medication may not be suitable for you.
It is advisable to discuss with your outpatient physician whether to discontinue the medication.

Reply Date: 2023/10/29

More Info

Managing blood pressure and medication after heart stent placement is a critical aspect of post-operative care, especially following an acute myocardial infarction (heart attack). Your situation, where you experienced persistent low blood pressure (95/65 mmHg) and dizziness while on medication, raises important considerations regarding your treatment plan.

Firstly, it is essential to understand the medications you are taking. Kankun (康肯) is typically used to manage heart failure and can lower blood pressure. Baiwu Ning (百無凝) is an antiplatelet medication, which is crucial after stent placement to prevent blood clots. Berkai (伯基) and Guanzhitai (冠脂妥膜衣錠) are likely lipid-lowering agents, which help manage cholesterol levels. Each of these medications plays a role in your recovery and ongoing heart health.

The symptoms you describe, such as persistent dizziness and low blood pressure, are concerning. Dizziness can be a sign of inadequate blood flow to the brain, which may occur if blood pressure drops too low. While it is not uncommon for blood pressure to be lower than average after stent placement, especially if you are on multiple medications that can lower blood pressure, it is crucial to monitor these levels closely.

Self-Medication and Stopping Medications: You mentioned that you stopped taking Kankun for two days and noticed an increase in your blood pressure. While it is understandable to seek relief from symptoms, it is generally not advisable to stop prescribed medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Abruptly discontinuing medications, especially those that affect heart function and blood pressure, can lead to adverse effects, including increased risk of heart complications.

Recommendations:
1. Consult Your Doctor: It is vital to discuss your symptoms and medication regimen with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can assess whether your current medications are appropriate or if adjustments are needed. Given that your next appointment is not until December, consider reaching out to your doctor sooner, especially if your symptoms persist or worsen.

2. Monitor Blood Pressure: Keep a daily log of your blood pressure readings and any symptoms you experience. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider to make informed decisions about your treatment.

3. Medication Adjustment: Your doctor may consider adjusting your medications based on your blood pressure readings and symptoms. They might reduce the dosage of Kankun or switch to a different medication that better suits your needs without causing significant drops in blood pressure.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: In addition to medication management, lifestyle changes can help manage blood pressure. These include maintaining a balanced diet low in sodium, engaging in regular physical activity as tolerated, and managing stress levels.

5. Emergency Situations: If your blood pressure drops significantly (e.g., systolic below 90 mmHg) or if you experience severe dizziness, fainting, or other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, managing blood pressure and medication after heart stent placement requires careful monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider. While it may be tempting to adjust medications based on how you feel, it is essential to do so under medical guidance to ensure your safety and optimize your heart health.

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