Do I Need Blood Pressure Medication for My Daily Readings?

Q: Do I Need Blood Pressure Medication for My Daily Readings?

Hello Vivian： Hypertension patients should regularly monitor their blood pressure. <br>It is advisable for both yourself and your family to learn how to measure blood pressure. <br>Control your salt intake, limit fat consumption, and follow the same principles for managing blood

Should I take medication for this blood pressure?

I experience dizziness every day, and my blood pressure readings upon waking range from 145 to 158 over 97 to 106.
Should I take antihypertensive medication? Please advise on medication options.
Additionally, once I start taking medication, will I have to continue indefinitely? Why did the doctor only prescribe Inderal for me?

VIVIAN, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/09/03

Dr. Xie Weigong reply Pharmacology

Hello Vivian: Hypertension patients should regularly monitor their blood pressure.
It is advisable for both yourself and your family to learn how to measure blood pressure.
Control your salt intake, limit fat consumption, and follow the same principles for managing blood lipids.
Avoid overeating and binge eating, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, control your weight, and engage in regular exercise.
It is important to develop a habit of maintaining a relaxed and cheerful disposition, taking things calmly and without haste.
The physician has prescribed only one medication, Inderal, which may be to minimize medication use.
If you are planning to become pregnant, please consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist.
Pharmacist Hsieh Wei-Kung, 97.9.5.

Reply Date: 2008/09/03

More Info

When it comes to managing high blood pressure, particularly with readings consistently in the range of 145-158/97-106, it is essential to consider the implications of these numbers on your overall health. Your blood pressure readings indicate that you are in the hypertensive range, which can lead to various health complications if left untreated. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as dizziness and headaches, can also be associated with elevated blood pressure levels.

Do You Need Medication?
Given your daily blood pressure readings, it is advisable to discuss the initiation of antihypertensive medication with your healthcare provider. Medications like Inderal (propranolol) are often prescribed for high blood pressure, especially if you are experiencing symptoms like dizziness. Inderal is a beta-blocker that can help lower blood pressure and manage symptoms related to anxiety or stress, which may also contribute to your elevated readings.

Why Only Inderal?
Your doctor may have prescribed Inderal for several reasons:
1. Symptom Management: If you are experiencing anxiety or stress-related symptoms, Inderal can help manage both your blood pressure and these symptoms.

2. Individualized Treatment: The choice of medication often depends on individual health profiles, including any other conditions you may have. If you have a history of anxiety or panic attacks, Inderal may be particularly beneficial.

3. Side Effects and Tolerability: Your doctor may have considered the side effects of other medications and determined that Inderal is the most suitable option for you.

Should You Take Medication Daily?
Yes, if your doctor prescribes blood pressure medication, it is generally recommended to take it daily as directed. Consistency is crucial in managing blood pressure effectively. Skipping doses can lead to fluctuations in your blood pressure, which can be harmful over time. If you have concerns about long-term medication use, discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on how long you may need to be on medication and the potential for tapering off if your blood pressure stabilizes.

Can You Stop Taking Medication?
Stopping blood pressure medication should never be done abruptly or without consulting your healthcare provider. If your blood pressure readings improve and remain stable over time, your doctor may consider adjusting your treatment plan. However, this decision should be based on thorough evaluations and monitoring of your blood pressure and overall health.

Additional Recommendations
1. Lifestyle Modifications: Alongside medication, lifestyle changes can significantly impact blood pressure management. This includes:
- Diet: Following a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing sodium intake.

- Exercise: Regular physical activity can help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

- Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or therapy can help manage stress, which may contribute to elevated blood pressure.

2. Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your blood pressure readings at home and report any significant changes or persistent symptoms to your healthcare provider.

3. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor your blood pressure and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

In conclusion, based on your current blood pressure readings and symptoms, it is advisable to consider medication under the guidance of your healthcare provider. Inderal may be a suitable option, but ongoing communication with your doctor is vital to ensure effective management of your blood pressure and overall health.

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