Managing Blood Pressure: Navigating Medication Side Effects and Concerns

Q: Managing Blood Pressure: Navigating Medication Side Effects and Concerns

Hello： 1. The occurrence of herpes on your lips and mild abdominal pain should not be related to Epanutin 5/80. 2. Epanutin 5/80 is not commonly associated with arrhythmia as a side effect; rather, tea and coffee are more likely to cause arrhythmias. 3. Your b

Blood pressure issues?

At home, my diastolic blood pressure has been consistently high, ranging from 90 to over 100, and my systolic pressure is between 130 and 140.
On December 27, 2023, I visited a hypertension specialist for the first time, and they prescribed me a three-month supply of a medication called Prazosin.
After taking it for over two months, the blood pressure reduction was not satisfactory, but I did not experience any side effects.
Later, I switched to another doctor, who on March 18, 2024, prescribed a one-month supply of Amlodipine 5/80, which worked very well in lowering my blood pressure, bringing my diastolic pressure down to 70-80 and systolic pressure to 100-130.
However, the next day I developed a large cold sore on my lip (I had experienced cold sores before, but never that large).

By the second week, I started feeling mild pain on both sides of my abdomen.
On March 24, in the afternoon, after drinking tea, I felt discomfort in my chest that night, which I was unsure if it was palpitations.
On March 25, concerned about potential side effects, I stopped taking any antihypertensive medications.
It has now been 10 days, and I occasionally feel like I need to breathe deeply.
If I drink coffee or tea that day, I feel discomfort in my chest before sleeping, which prevents me from falling asleep.
I reviewed the medication guide for Amlodipine and noted that it lists arrhythmia as a potential side effect.
When I asked my doctor, they mentioned that side effects should subside within 5-7 days.
However, I still occasionally experience the need for deep breaths and palpitations.
I'm unsure if this is due to the combination medication being too strong for me or a reaction from not taking any antihypertensive medication.
I really don't know how to proceed.

ou sh, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/03

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: 1.
The occurrence of herpes on your lips and mild abdominal pain should not be related to Epanutin 5/80.
2.
Epanutin 5/80 is not commonly associated with arrhythmia as a side effect; rather, tea and coffee are more likely to cause arrhythmias.
3.
Your blood pressure has decreased from the original 130-140/90-100 to 100-130/70-80 after taking Epanutin 5/80, which should not indicate an issue with excessive medication effect.
In summary, it is recommended that you avoid tea and coffee for now and monitor whether the palpitations improve.
If they do improve, it is advisable to continue taking Epanutin 5/80.
If there is no improvement, it is recommended to return to your physician to discuss whether a medication adjustment is necessary.

Reply Date: 2024/04/03

More Info

Managing blood pressure effectively is crucial for overall health, especially for individuals with a history of hypertension or related conditions. Your experience with different antihypertensive medications, including 脈優 (Prazosin) and 易安穩 (Amlodipine), highlights the complexities of medication management and the potential side effects that can arise.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that blood pressure medications can have varying effects on individuals. Prazosin, for instance, is an alpha-blocker that can help lower blood pressure but may not be effective for everyone. Amlodipine, on the other hand, is a calcium channel blocker that is often more effective in managing hypertension and can lead to significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as you have experienced.

However, the side effects you’ve encountered, such as the development of a large cold sore and abdominal discomfort, warrant careful consideration. Cold sores can be triggered by stress or changes in the immune system, and while they are not a direct side effect of Amlodipine, the stress of managing a new medication could have contributed. Abdominal pain can also occur with various medications, and it’s essential to communicate these symptoms to your healthcare provider.

The heart discomfort and feelings of needing to take deep breaths could be related to several factors. It’s possible that these symptoms are a reaction to stopping the medication abruptly, which can lead to rebound hypertension or other cardiovascular responses. Additionally, caffeine consumption, as you mentioned, can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and palpitations, especially in individuals who may be sensitive to stimulants.

Given your symptoms, it’s crucial to approach this situation with caution. Here are some recommendations:
1. Consult Your Doctor: Since you’ve experienced significant side effects after starting Amlodipine, it’s important to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They may consider adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication that may be better tolerated.

2. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers (like caffeine or stress). This information can help your doctor make informed decisions about your treatment.

3. Consider Lifestyle Modifications: In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can significantly impact blood pressure management. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet low in sodium, stress management techniques, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can all contribute to better blood pressure control.

4. Gradual Medication Changes: If your doctor decides to change your medication, it’s often best to taper off the current medication gradually rather than stopping abruptly. This can help mitigate withdrawal symptoms and stabilize your blood pressure.

5. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your blood pressure and any side effects from medications. This ongoing communication can help ensure that your treatment plan is effective and safe.

6. Educate Yourself: Understanding your medications, their potential side effects, and how they interact with other substances (like caffeine) can empower you to manage your health more effectively.
In conclusion, managing blood pressure is a multifaceted process that involves careful medication management, lifestyle adjustments, and ongoing communication with healthcare providers. Your symptoms should not be ignored, and it’s essential to work closely with your doctor to find a treatment plan that works for you while minimizing side effects.

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