Managing Hypertension and Heart Rate Issues After Brain Injury

Q: Managing Hypertension and Heart Rate Issues After Brain Injury

Hello： Inderal is a medication that can help alleviate symptoms for those with high blood pressure and rapid heart rates. <br>Although it may cause dizziness and slightly slower movements, it can actually help reduce feelings of anxiety and restlessness if you often experience th

Hypertension following traumatic brain injury?

Hello, after a head injury, I am experiencing high blood pressure and rapid heart rate, which sometimes seems to slow down, along with difficulty breathing! The doctor prescribed Tridergen and Methycool, and later added Inderal.
I'm concerned that taking Inderal might cause cerebral ischemia.
I'm not confident in the doctor's diagnosis, and I have many other symptoms including: lack of energy, slow movements but feeling breathless, slower beard growth (it takes three days to grow what used to take one day), headaches, dizziness, numbness in my head, eye pain, sudden shaking and spinning of my vision (as if being spun on a turntable), pain from my neck to my right ear, forgetfulness, inability to fully close my right eyelid, lack of thirst, lack of hunger, numbness in my feet after walking less than 500 meters, slow reactions, slow responses when looking to the right, dizziness when concentrating on reading, instability while walking, and I once fainted in the shower, possibly due to good blood circulation but cerebral ischemia.
Which specialty should I consult for these issues? It seems that taking Tridergen and Methycool hasn't improved my condition much, and I also have lower back pain.
Could there be a problem with my kidneys? I'm feeling very anxious.

32bit, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/02/27

Dr. Liu Huiya reply Pharmacology

Hello: Inderal is a medication that can help alleviate symptoms for those with high blood pressure and rapid heart rates.
Although it may cause dizziness and slightly slower movements, it can actually help reduce feelings of anxiety and restlessness if you often experience these symptoms.
The relationship between Inderal and cerebral ischemia has not yet been confirmed.
Based on the various symptoms you described, it may be more appropriate to consult a neurologist.
If the neurologist deems it necessary, they may refer you to another specialty for further evaluation.
For your back pain and kidney issues, it would be advisable to have a physician conduct further examinations to determine the cause.
However, when used correctly, Tridergen and Methycool (Vitamin B12) should not harm the kidneys.
Feel free to reach out, and wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2008/02/27

More Info

Managing hypertension and heart rate issues after a brain injury is a complex process that requires careful consideration of the patient's symptoms, medical history, and the medications prescribed. In your case, it seems that you are experiencing a range of troubling symptoms following a brain injury, including hypertension, fluctuating heart rates, and various neurological symptoms.
First, let's address the medications you mentioned: Tridergen, Methycool, and Inderal (propranolol). Inderal is a beta-blocker commonly used to manage high blood pressure and heart rate issues. It works by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, which can help reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure. While beta-blockers can be effective in managing these symptoms, there is a concern about their potential effects on cerebral blood flow, especially in patients with a history of brain injury. However, the relationship between beta-blockers and cerebral ischemia (insufficient blood flow to the brain) is not straightforward and depends on various factors, including the patient's overall cardiovascular health and the presence of other risk factors.

Your symptoms, such as fatigue, slow movements, and cognitive difficulties, could be indicative of several underlying issues, including post-concussion syndrome, which can occur after a brain injury. This syndrome can manifest as headaches, dizziness, and cognitive impairments, and it may take time for symptoms to resolve. The fact that you are experiencing a range of symptoms, including visual disturbances and memory issues, suggests that a thorough neurological evaluation is warranted.

Given your concerns about the medications and the lack of improvement in your symptoms, it would be advisable to seek a consultation with a neurologist. A neurologist specializes in disorders of the nervous system and can provide a more comprehensive assessment of your condition. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to evaluate for any structural changes in the brain that could be contributing to your symptoms.

Additionally, your concerns about kidney function due to the medications should also be addressed. While Tridergen and Methycool (which contains vitamin B12) are generally not known to cause kidney issues, it is essential to monitor kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions or those on multiple medications. A healthcare provider can perform blood tests to assess kidney function and ensure that your medications are not adversely affecting your renal health.

In summary, managing hypertension and heart rate issues after a brain injury requires a multidisciplinary approach. It is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and concerns. A neurologist can help determine the best course of action, which may include adjusting medications, conducting further tests, and providing supportive therapies to address your symptoms. If you feel that your current treatment plan is not effective, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or request a referral to a specialist who can provide the care you need. Your health and well-being should always be the priority, and it is essential to advocate for yourself in the healthcare system.

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