Managing High Blood Pressure: Concerns About Medication Changes - Family Medicine

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Managing high blood pressure (hypertension) is crucial for maintaining overall health, especially for individuals with a history of cardiovascular issues. Your father's situation, characterized by persistent high blood pressure and chest discomfort, warrants careful consideration and management.
Firstly, it's important to understand that blood pressure can fluctuate due to various factors, including stress, diet, physical activity, and medication adherence. The transition from one medication to another, especially with a significant increase in dosage, can raise concerns about potential side effects and the effectiveness of treatment.

In your father's case, he was previously prescribed a lower dose of a medication (脈優錠, which is likely a beta-blocker) that he felt was ineffective in managing his blood pressure. The new prescription of 雅脈 (which is likely a calcium channel blocker or another antihypertensive) at a higher dose (40mg) is a common practice when the previous medication does not yield the desired results. However, it is essential to monitor for side effects, especially when there is a significant change in dosage.

Common side effects of antihypertensive medications can include dizziness, fatigue, headache, and gastrointestinal disturbances. In some cases, patients may experience more severe reactions, such as hypotension (low blood pressure), which can lead to fainting or falls. Therefore, it is crucial for your father to have regular follow-ups with his healthcare provider to assess the medication's effectiveness and any side effects he may experience.

Regarding the concern about whether he should continue with the original medication or switch to the new one, it is essential to consider the following:
1. Effectiveness: If the previous medication did not effectively lower his blood pressure, it may be reasonable to try the new medication. However, if he experiences significant side effects or if his blood pressure remains uncontrolled, further adjustments may be necessary.

2. Monitoring: Encourage your father to regularly monitor his blood pressure at home. Keeping a log of his readings can help his healthcare provider make informed decisions about his treatment plan.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Alongside medication, lifestyle changes play a vital role in managing high blood pressure. This includes maintaining a healthy diet (low in sodium and rich in fruits and vegetables), regular physical activity, weight management, and stress reduction techniques.

4. Communication with Healthcare Providers: It is crucial for your father to maintain open communication with his healthcare team. If he experiences any concerning symptoms, such as increased chest discomfort, dizziness, or significant changes in blood pressure readings, he should seek medical attention promptly.

5. Follow-Up Appointments: Given his history of cardiovascular issues and the recent changes in medication, it is advisable for your father to keep his follow-up appointments for further evaluation, including the planned vascular check-up. This will help ensure that any underlying issues are addressed and that his treatment plan is optimized.

In conclusion, while the increase in medication dosage may raise concerns, it is a common practice in hypertension management. Continuous monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and regular communication with healthcare providers are essential components of effectively managing high blood pressure. If your father has any doubts or experiences adverse effects, he should not hesitate to consult his doctor for personalized advice and adjustments to his treatment plan.