Blood Pressure Fluctuations: When to Continue Medication - Cardiology

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Understanding blood pressure fluctuations and the appropriate management of hypertension is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. Blood pressure can vary significantly due to numerous factors, including stress, diet, physical activity, and even the time of day. In your case, it seems that you have experienced some fluctuations in your blood pressure readings, and you are questioning whether to continue your medication based on these readings.

Firstly, it is important to understand that blood pressure is not static; it fluctuates throughout the day. Factors such as physical activity, emotional stress, and even the consumption of food and beverages can influence these readings. The readings you mentioned, such as 130/67 mmHg and values below 120 mmHg, suggest that your blood pressure is within a normal range, especially considering that the American Heart Association defines normal blood pressure as being below 120/80 mmHg.

Regarding your question about whether to continue taking your medication, specifically the half-dose of the antihypertensive medication (博脈舒錠, which is likely a brand name for a calcium channel blocker), it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider. If you have been consistently measuring your blood pressure below 130/67 mmHg without medication for three days, it may indicate that your blood pressure is well-controlled. However, this does not automatically mean you should discontinue your medication.

Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
1. Consult Your Doctor: It is crucial to discuss your blood pressure readings and medication regimen with your healthcare provider. They can assess your overall health, consider any underlying conditions, and provide personalized advice based on your medical history.

2. Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Continue to monitor your blood pressure regularly, ideally at the same time each day and under similar conditions (e.g., after resting for a few minutes). This will help you and your doctor understand your blood pressure patterns better.

3. Lifestyle Factors: Since you mentioned that you have a history of being overweight and have habits such as staying up late, consider making lifestyle changes that can positively impact your blood pressure. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep.

4. Medication Adjustment: If your doctor determines that your blood pressure is consistently within the normal range, they may consider adjusting your medication dosage or even discontinuing it. However, this should always be done under medical supervision to avoid any potential rebound hypertension or other complications.

5. Weight Management: Since you have lost some weight (from 109 kg to 103 kg), this can also contribute to lower blood pressure. Weight loss is often associated with improved blood pressure control, so continue to focus on healthy weight management.

In summary, while your recent blood pressure readings are encouraging, it is essential to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider regarding your medication and overall health. They will help you determine the best course of action based on your specific circumstances, ensuring that you maintain optimal blood pressure control while minimizing any potential risks associated with medication changes.