WannaBeDrugFree
03-05-2008, 06:21 PM
I went to the Dr. today and told him my Cartia XT 300 mgs. was making me too sick and wanted to go back down to 240 mgs. He wanted to add a diuretic...12.5 mgs. of Hydrochlorothiazide and then allow me to go down to 240 mgs. in the Cartia XT(Caridzem CD). I am really scared to take another pill and am afraid I will have problems weaning off 2 drugs instead of 1 when I get in better shape and get my anxiety down. My Dad died 5-6 months ago and I have been a mess since. I was doing well the first 2 months and then it all caught up with me. At any rate. Has anyone taken this and been able to come off when it wasn't needed. Does the body get addicted to or become dependent on a diuretic, like it does with a CCB??? I wish I knew what to do...I am at my wits end with this and it's making my anxiety worse.
Can someone help me with this, as well as the other thread I started about my CCB??? I have been sick on and off for at least 3 years where I have not been able to work, but haven't tried for disability, as it is nearly impossible in Ohio for something like this.
Can someone help me with this, as well as the other thread I started about my CCB??? I have been sick on and off for at least 3 years where I have not been able to work, but haven't tried for disability, as it is nearly impossible in Ohio for something like this.
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aussiejono
03-06-2008, 01:52 AM
at 12.5mg, extremely safe, and a good addition
WannaBeDrugFree
03-06-2008, 10:33 AM
I chickened out of taking the diuretic with my lowered dose of Cartia XT. I am really afraid of the side-effects.:(
flowergirl2day
03-06-2008, 01:01 PM
Hi, :)
They are "relatively" safe and well tolerated at a low dose. Well, as safe as any drug can ever be. By staying on a low dose you will avoid some of the undesirable changes in blood chemistry. You will need periodic complete blood cell count, electrolytes, kidney and liver function tests. These meds should treat your blood pressure to goal.
Amazingly, a low dose of diuretics has been shown to decrease left ventricular mass in people with low to moderate high blood pressure, which, I think, is a little known fact. :)
flowergirl
They are "relatively" safe and well tolerated at a low dose. Well, as safe as any drug can ever be. By staying on a low dose you will avoid some of the undesirable changes in blood chemistry. You will need periodic complete blood cell count, electrolytes, kidney and liver function tests. These meds should treat your blood pressure to goal.
Amazingly, a low dose of diuretics has been shown to decrease left ventricular mass in people with low to moderate high blood pressure, which, I think, is a little known fact. :)
flowergirl
WannaBeDrugFree
03-06-2008, 01:18 PM
Well...earlier this morning I walked down 3 flights of stairs at my house and back up and my bp reading was 136/87/78 RIGHT after. I have been doing my recumbent bike all week for a little while each day, too. Trying to watch my diet a little at a time, as well. So, I am trying to turn this around the right way BEFORE jumping the gun, once again, and adding more to the mix. It's only been a little over 7 hours since the dose was lowered, but I have already begun to feel almost no anxiety in my chest and my pulse is trying to regulate.
Does this sound like I am doing the right thing here??? I want to work my way DOWN on this med, not up and not to add more meds to my body.
I wrote more in my other thread, too, flowergirl...so if you could respond to the last 2 posts there, I would really appreciate it.:)
Does this sound like I am doing the right thing here??? I want to work my way DOWN on this med, not up and not to add more meds to my body.
I wrote more in my other thread, too, flowergirl...so if you could respond to the last 2 posts there, I would really appreciate it.:)
flowergirl2day
03-06-2008, 01:33 PM
Hi again, :)
just a quick note. Anyone's blood pressure would be elevated after walking up a few flights of stairs. Blood pressure fluctuations are normal, especially when we are active during the day. Many factors play a role in the fluctuations - activity levels, stress levels, consumption of foods/drinks etc. Blood pressure can fluctuate by as much as 40mmHg in the course of a day. Don't let your blood pressure elevations scare you. Read more about them - they are normal.
Good luck,
flowergirl
just a quick note. Anyone's blood pressure would be elevated after walking up a few flights of stairs. Blood pressure fluctuations are normal, especially when we are active during the day. Many factors play a role in the fluctuations - activity levels, stress levels, consumption of foods/drinks etc. Blood pressure can fluctuate by as much as 40mmHg in the course of a day. Don't let your blood pressure elevations scare you. Read more about them - they are normal.
Good luck,
flowergirl
WannaBeDrugFree
03-06-2008, 02:18 PM
What I was saying is my bp is lowering even when I take the stairs or use my bike today and this week. I think the exercise is having a positive impact on my readings.
I have been around 135-160/90-110 for the most part thru this anxiety this past month. It would go up even higher on the top number(as high as 170 range) if I was upset or crying or arguing with my fiancee...but never any higher than 110 in the bottom. I am saying that I think my heart wants the exercise and will repay me with lower readings even when exercising. Does that make sense???
I have been around 135-160/90-110 for the most part thru this anxiety this past month. It would go up even higher on the top number(as high as 170 range) if I was upset or crying or arguing with my fiancee...but never any higher than 110 in the bottom. I am saying that I think my heart wants the exercise and will repay me with lower readings even when exercising. Does that make sense???
aussiejono
03-06-2008, 05:44 PM
Diuretics in low doses such as you take have virtualy no side effects, higher doses have a lot of side effects, but dont generaly offer any greater reductions in blood preasure.... generaly, if 12.5mg of HCTZ doesnt work, it is best to add another drug in low doseage.
It has been shown that 3 antihypertensives in low doseage give better blood preasure control than 2 drugs at normal doseage, with less side effects.
And, remember the possible side effects of NOT taking antihypertensives, stroke and heart attack.....
It has been shown that 3 antihypertensives in low doseage give better blood preasure control than 2 drugs at normal doseage, with less side effects.
And, remember the possible side effects of NOT taking antihypertensives, stroke and heart attack.....
WannaBeDrugFree
03-06-2008, 06:14 PM
Diuretics in low doses such as you take have virtualy no side effects, higher doses have a lot of side effects, but dont generaly offer any greater reductions in blood preasure.... generaly, if 12.5mg of HCTZ doesnt work, it is best to add another drug in low doseage.
It has been shown that 3 antihypertensives in low doseage give better blood preasure control than 2 drugs at normal doseage, with less side effects.
And, remember the possible side effects of NOT taking antihypertensives, stroke and heart attack.....
I am already taking 240 mgs of Cartia XT.
Well...I am adding that I just took my water pill. I am nervous about what it will do to me with side effects, but my blood pressure kept going up the longer I was ONLY on the 240 mgs. instead of the 300. I sure hope this will get my pressure down and be okay for me.
It has been shown that 3 antihypertensives in low doseage give better blood preasure control than 2 drugs at normal doseage, with less side effects.
And, remember the possible side effects of NOT taking antihypertensives, stroke and heart attack.....
I am already taking 240 mgs of Cartia XT.
Well...I am adding that I just took my water pill. I am nervous about what it will do to me with side effects, but my blood pressure kept going up the longer I was ONLY on the 240 mgs. instead of the 300. I sure hope this will get my pressure down and be okay for me.
flowergirl2day
03-06-2008, 09:47 PM
Hi, :)
I am saying that I think my heart wants the exercise and will repay me with lower readings even when exercising. Does that make sense?
Seems like your body is sending out a message......glad to hear you are listening!!! It makes PERFECT sense to me!:::) Our reward for listening to our bodies and taking better care of them is better health.
flowergirl
I am saying that I think my heart wants the exercise and will repay me with lower readings even when exercising. Does that make sense?
Seems like your body is sending out a message......glad to hear you are listening!!! It makes PERFECT sense to me!:::) Our reward for listening to our bodies and taking better care of them is better health.
flowergirl
WannaBeDrugFree
03-06-2008, 09:59 PM
Hi, :)
Seems like your body is sending out a message......glad to hear you are listening!!! It makes PERFECT sense to me!:::) Our reward for listening to our bodies and taking better care of them is better health.
flowergirl
I also ended up caving in and taking the diuretic, too. I just hope I will be okay with it. I had to take it around 6pm and then I was told to take it again in the morning with my Cartia XT. A little nervous about taking 2 doses that close together...as I don't have loads of liquids to pee out.
Am I supposed to drink more while on these??? I have always had problems drinking enough water. But this morning I was drinking more and I was peeing like always when I drink more water. Now since taking the diuretic, it seems I am peeing less.:confused:
Seems like your body is sending out a message......glad to hear you are listening!!! It makes PERFECT sense to me!:::) Our reward for listening to our bodies and taking better care of them is better health.
flowergirl
I also ended up caving in and taking the diuretic, too. I just hope I will be okay with it. I had to take it around 6pm and then I was told to take it again in the morning with my Cartia XT. A little nervous about taking 2 doses that close together...as I don't have loads of liquids to pee out.
Am I supposed to drink more while on these??? I have always had problems drinking enough water. But this morning I was drinking more and I was peeing like always when I drink more water. Now since taking the diuretic, it seems I am peeing less.:confused:
flowergirl2day
03-06-2008, 11:14 PM
Hi, :)
I am not sure about the amount of liquids we are supposed to drink.
Diuretics are used to control the extracellular fluid volume expansion.
Total body sodium determines extracellular fluid volume.
Deficiency or excess of sodium causes volume depletion or volume overload. Dietary intake of sodium and renal excretion regulate total sodium body content.
The diuretic reduces the amount of fluid in our tissue and the blood circulating through our arteries and veins. Reduced fluid volume results in a reduction in blood pressure.
I always drink a lot of fluids, especially water, and have never been told not to. Neither have I been told to drink plenty of fluids. I don't think you have to go out of your way to stay hydrated, but you should take in the required minimal amount of liquids every day.
We need to take in enough fluids to replace what we lose through perspiration and excretion. It does not have to be plain water, either. An average person retains about 1/2-1/3 of the amount of fluid from coffee, tea, soda, juice or milk. The only fluid that does not help in flluid repletion is alcohol- it produces loss of fluid and dehydration if consumed in large quantities.
P.S. You say you don't have loads of liquids in your body...not to worry! There are more liquids in your body than you might think. Good luck with the diuretic. Hoping you'll get a good sleep.....:)
flowergirl
I am not sure about the amount of liquids we are supposed to drink.
Diuretics are used to control the extracellular fluid volume expansion.
Total body sodium determines extracellular fluid volume.
Deficiency or excess of sodium causes volume depletion or volume overload. Dietary intake of sodium and renal excretion regulate total sodium body content.
The diuretic reduces the amount of fluid in our tissue and the blood circulating through our arteries and veins. Reduced fluid volume results in a reduction in blood pressure.
I always drink a lot of fluids, especially water, and have never been told not to. Neither have I been told to drink plenty of fluids. I don't think you have to go out of your way to stay hydrated, but you should take in the required minimal amount of liquids every day.
We need to take in enough fluids to replace what we lose through perspiration and excretion. It does not have to be plain water, either. An average person retains about 1/2-1/3 of the amount of fluid from coffee, tea, soda, juice or milk. The only fluid that does not help in flluid repletion is alcohol- it produces loss of fluid and dehydration if consumed in large quantities.
P.S. You say you don't have loads of liquids in your body...not to worry! There are more liquids in your body than you might think. Good luck with the diuretic. Hoping you'll get a good sleep.....:)
flowergirl
WannaBeDrugFree
03-06-2008, 11:31 PM
TY...if I can lower my bp without a ton of side-effects, I will sleep better just knowing that, too. One thing is for sure...the 300 mgs. of Cartia XT was crippling me much worse than any other dose I have had. I have been on 180 mgs. the longest, 120 mgs. when I dropped enough weight and my stress was low, back up to the 180 mgs. again when I gained back my weight...ugh...up to 240 mgs. after my Dad died...4-5 months later, I tried to up to 300 mgs. and then back down to the 240 mgs. again now from the brief 12 days I spent trying to tolerate the 300 mgs. I actually think the anxiety the 300 caused was causing more hbp issues in me than the 240 ever did.
I wish these muscle cramps would let up. Have you gotten any of them with your CCB??? I read you can. I also read that someone here said she got permanent damage to her knees from a CCB??? Did I read that right??? I have been having muscle issues since I got depleted from the flu end of Jan-now. I started my 240 beg. of October and didn't have that then. Do you think it's just the mineral/vitamin depletion from the flu and the stress I have been under or do you think the higher dose of CCB is to blame 3-4 months into using it??? Wouldn't that have reared it's ugly head much sooner??? What do you think???:confused:
I wish these muscle cramps would let up. Have you gotten any of them with your CCB??? I read you can. I also read that someone here said she got permanent damage to her knees from a CCB??? Did I read that right??? I have been having muscle issues since I got depleted from the flu end of Jan-now. I started my 240 beg. of October and didn't have that then. Do you think it's just the mineral/vitamin depletion from the flu and the stress I have been under or do you think the higher dose of CCB is to blame 3-4 months into using it??? Wouldn't that have reared it's ugly head much sooner??? What do you think???:confused:
flowergirl2day
03-07-2008, 12:14 AM
Hi,
I seem to have issues similar to yours but cannot be sure the CCB is to blame for them alone as I am on multiple meds. I get muscle aches and pains (for which I have medication to take as needed). Many medications have this side effect. Since you happen to be on only two, I'd say it's your CCB. Did I mention that side effects of calcium channel blockers are dose-related? When you see a table comparing the side effects of the different CCBs at graduated doses, it's an eye opener. The incidence of side effects is always LOW at low doses and increases with higher doses. I believe this applies to any drug. Have you had your electrolytes checked recently? Their imbalances cause really nasty muscle cramps.
Fam has had her joints damaged by Cozaar. That is an antihypertensive in the angiotensin receptor blocker group (ARB for short). If people feel they are having an allergic reaction to any drug, they should contact their doctor immediately. Fam did in just a few days but it was too late by then and the damage had been done.
flowergirl
I seem to have issues similar to yours but cannot be sure the CCB is to blame for them alone as I am on multiple meds. I get muscle aches and pains (for which I have medication to take as needed). Many medications have this side effect. Since you happen to be on only two, I'd say it's your CCB. Did I mention that side effects of calcium channel blockers are dose-related? When you see a table comparing the side effects of the different CCBs at graduated doses, it's an eye opener. The incidence of side effects is always LOW at low doses and increases with higher doses. I believe this applies to any drug. Have you had your electrolytes checked recently? Their imbalances cause really nasty muscle cramps.
Fam has had her joints damaged by Cozaar. That is an antihypertensive in the angiotensin receptor blocker group (ARB for short). If people feel they are having an allergic reaction to any drug, they should contact their doctor immediately. Fam did in just a few days but it was too late by then and the damage had been done.
flowergirl
WannaBeDrugFree
03-07-2008, 12:32 AM
I didn't get muscle pain and a lot of cramps till after I had the flu...(started the flu 1/22/08 but didn't get muscle cramps and tightness till a week or so after that) and I was barely eating for weeks after that. I have been taking magnesium and it seems to help some...if the muscle, joint issues were permanent they wouldn't get better on and off, would they???
I was on the 240 dose for nearly 3.5 months before the muscle issues started. Tho I did get buzzing, tingling and twitching in mid-January, before the flu. I have had that in the past and it went away over time. I would see some of it return when I was able to drink some coffee. Otherwise it was rare.
I will be getting things(electrolytes) tested when my blood is drawn soon.
How does Fam know her joint issues came from that med??? How long was she on it when it happened??? Is she sure it's permanent???
I was on the 240 dose for nearly 3.5 months before the muscle issues started. Tho I did get buzzing, tingling and twitching in mid-January, before the flu. I have had that in the past and it went away over time. I would see some of it return when I was able to drink some coffee. Otherwise it was rare.
I will be getting things(electrolytes) tested when my blood is drawn soon.
How does Fam know her joint issues came from that med??? How long was she on it when it happened??? Is she sure it's permanent???
aussiejono
03-07-2008, 12:39 AM
"The diuretic reduces the amount of fluid in our tissue and the blood circulating through our arteries and veins. Reduced fluid volume results in a reduction in blood pressure."
Diuretics also reduce vascular preasure, this is proved by the fact thatt hey are effective in people with no kidneys.
OP: A low dose ACE inhibitor and a low dose diuretic could effectively control your HBP with few side effects, might be worth asking your doctor if you can try. There are severl pills avaliable now that have both drugs in one tablet, you just take one tablet a day, and your blood preasure is controled through 2 mechanisms, and with less side effects than the verparamil is giving you
Diuretics also reduce vascular preasure, this is proved by the fact thatt hey are effective in people with no kidneys.
OP: A low dose ACE inhibitor and a low dose diuretic could effectively control your HBP with few side effects, might be worth asking your doctor if you can try. There are severl pills avaliable now that have both drugs in one tablet, you just take one tablet a day, and your blood preasure is controled through 2 mechanisms, and with less side effects than the verparamil is giving you
flowergirl2day
03-07-2008, 01:30 AM
Hi,
the flu might have left you somewhat dehydrated. That would be reflected in your electrolyte levels. Muscle cramps are common when the electrolytes are out of balance. I am glad you are taking magnesium. How about a combination of calcium/magnesium? I know that one mineral is needed in order for the other to be properly absorbed. I wonder if mag. alone can be taken and properly absorbed.I take two different calcium, one for stomach issues (citrate) to work with the PPI I take & the other is a cal/mag combo.
Glad you are getting your "lytes" tested. That's really important while on bp meds.
P.S. Fam is allergic to sulpha in the meds and unable to tolerate most. She is certain it was Cozaar that damaged her joints and described this in several threads. I don't remember which ones. Hopefully, she will read this and respond. :)
FG
the flu might have left you somewhat dehydrated. That would be reflected in your electrolyte levels. Muscle cramps are common when the electrolytes are out of balance. I am glad you are taking magnesium. How about a combination of calcium/magnesium? I know that one mineral is needed in order for the other to be properly absorbed. I wonder if mag. alone can be taken and properly absorbed.I take two different calcium, one for stomach issues (citrate) to work with the PPI I take & the other is a cal/mag combo.
Glad you are getting your "lytes" tested. That's really important while on bp meds.
P.S. Fam is allergic to sulpha in the meds and unable to tolerate most. She is certain it was Cozaar that damaged her joints and described this in several threads. I don't remember which ones. Hopefully, she will read this and respond. :)
FG
WannaBeDrugFree
03-07-2008, 01:37 AM
What about my muscle issues being permanent and shouldn't they have shown up within the 3.5 months I first started the 240 dose if they were from the CCB???
My muscles are tight in my neck and shoulders and upper back, too.
My muscles are tight in my neck and shoulders and upper back, too.
WannaBeDrugFree
03-07-2008, 02:04 AM
I took Bactrim(a sulpha anti-biotic) 10/06 and had a funny reaction in my mouth and tongue...but it went away. When I read about the diuretic I am starting...it said if you are allergic to sulpha to tell the dr. Maybe I am allergic to it, too. All I know is my muscles are all hurting and my muscles are tight in my legs now. I have a slight headache, too. :(
flowergirl2day
03-07-2008, 02:10 AM
If at all unsure give your doctor a call in the morning. Fam could tell you more about this as she's experienced the sulpha allergy first hand.
Maybe you are very sensitive to medication. Some people are. I always seem to get most of the side effects. It could be because I am usually put on high doses of meds without any titration.
Maybe you are very sensitive to medication. Some people are. I always seem to get most of the side effects. It could be because I am usually put on high doses of meds without any titration.
bethsheba
03-09-2008, 09:48 AM
Wannabe,
Just caught your thread. The flu can deplete one's electrolytes, and a diuretic can also so I suspect you're dealing with an electrolyte imbalance (potassium specifically as it can cause muscle aches and pains). Something that might help is a little recipe clinics give for people who are at risk of becoming dehydrated...1 quart of water, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 3-4 tablespoons sugar, and if available, 1/3 teaspoon salt substitute like "Lite Salt" (as it is high in potassium).
You can also buy a hydration drink that would replace fluids and electrolytes in amounts that are best used by your body. These would be sports drinks like Gatorade, PowerAde, All Sport.
Somthing important to know and to remember is that stomach flu should only last 1-2 days. If your "flu" lasts longer than that it may be a side effect of the medication (I had flu for 3 weeks when taking hydrochlorothiazide).
Bethsheba
PS The muscle aches and pains will probably disappear when you get your "lites" back in balance, so don't panic. But do have those labs done.
Just caught your thread. The flu can deplete one's electrolytes, and a diuretic can also so I suspect you're dealing with an electrolyte imbalance (potassium specifically as it can cause muscle aches and pains). Something that might help is a little recipe clinics give for people who are at risk of becoming dehydrated...1 quart of water, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 3-4 tablespoons sugar, and if available, 1/3 teaspoon salt substitute like "Lite Salt" (as it is high in potassium).
You can also buy a hydration drink that would replace fluids and electrolytes in amounts that are best used by your body. These would be sports drinks like Gatorade, PowerAde, All Sport.
Somthing important to know and to remember is that stomach flu should only last 1-2 days. If your "flu" lasts longer than that it may be a side effect of the medication (I had flu for 3 weeks when taking hydrochlorothiazide).
Bethsheba
PS The muscle aches and pains will probably disappear when you get your "lites" back in balance, so don't panic. But do have those labs done.
bethsheba
03-09-2008, 09:56 AM
...And, remember the possible side effects of NOT taking antihypertensives, stroke and heart attack.....
Drugs powerful enough to save lives are also powerful enough to kill. All drugs have side effects, it's just a matter of degree. One has to balance the risks of medication side effects with the risks of cardiovascular disease.
Bethsheba
Drugs powerful enough to save lives are also powerful enough to kill. All drugs have side effects, it's just a matter of degree. One has to balance the risks of medication side effects with the risks of cardiovascular disease.
Bethsheba
WannaBeDrugFree
03-10-2008, 05:31 PM
Drugs powerful enough to save lives are also powerful enough to kill. All drugs have side effects, it's just a matter of degree. One has to balance the risks of medication side effects with the risks of cardiovascular disease.
Bethsheba
I am scared I will never get off these meds, Bethsheba. And now I am on 2, not just one. How dangerous are the diuretics???
P.S. - I was over the flu in the beg. of Jan...the diarrhea only lasted a couple days...then my temp went down and stayed low for about 4 days and scared me. I felt the after effects for weeks...I think I still am.
Bethsheba
I am scared I will never get off these meds, Bethsheba. And now I am on 2, not just one. How dangerous are the diuretics???
P.S. - I was over the flu in the beg. of Jan...the diarrhea only lasted a couple days...then my temp went down and stayed low for about 4 days and scared me. I felt the after effects for weeks...I think I still am.
bethsheba
03-10-2008, 07:23 PM
I am scared I will never get off these meds, Bethsheba. And now I am on 2, not just one. How dangerous are the diuretics???
Wannabe,
Yes, I know you are scared...but sometimes (although it's uncomfortable) scared is good...because people who aren't scared can sometimes do dumb things. Fear can protect us to a degree...but of course, as we've mentioned in the past it can cripple us as well.
Don't assume you will never be off the meds as you are putting the cart before the horse. You're worrying about the wrong things now...if you are going to worry, do it wisely. Choose your cares well, :).
The reason I posted my comment about "drugs that save lives can kill" is because there are some posters on these boards who offer support by saying that these meds have "few" side effects and warn of the dangers of stroke and hypertension. When you read some of these posts, keep in mind that some of the people who offer this kind of "support" have never taken a blood pressure medication in their life (you can read their posts if you don't believe me) and are not aware that when you take a medication you may be assuming other risks. I am well aware of the dangers of stroke and other problems...but I am also aware of the dangers of medication because I have experienced them on ALL of the medications that I have taken in the past 3 years.
I can't tell you if a diuretic is safe or not. No one can! What I can tell you is that I've known people who have taken diuretics for over 20 years without major problems and their blood pressure was well controlled :angel:. I can also tell you is that I had serious problems that may have been avoided had I been more versed on the side effects and who should or should not take a diuretic (I sweat like a pig, and have trouble keeping hydrated without being on a diuretic, spend alot of time outside in the summer, have a mild family history of gout, diabetes, and surprise! allergies all of which are reasons I shoudn't have been on a diuretic in the first place).
....P.S. - I was over the flu in the beg. of Jan...the diarrhea only lasted a couple days...then my temp went down and stayed low for about 4 days and scared me. I felt the after effects for weeks...I think I still am.
Wannabe, are you taking any vitamin supplements? If you are, does your doctor know? Some can cause diarrhea...magnesium for instance. Was your temp "high" when you had the stomach flu? You don't usually get a temp with the stomach flu and I would suspect something else if your temp was high.
I can't offer you more help at this point because I really don't know what your hypertension background is...but I will say I've been on 5 different medications (monotherapy) over the past 3-4 years, all with relatively severe side effects, and I have learned alot as a result. My doctor told me I would be on meds the rest of my life because my pressures were so high....but I'm no longer on meds and although my pressures may be a little higher than I'd like (123/86) or so, I can still make some more life style changes (exercise).
You may or may not have to be on meds...some people have to be and there is nothing wrong with that. There are some wonderful "sucess" stories of people here who take medication and may have to the rest of their lives...but they are smart people who have learned along the way...they have made the necessary lifestyle changes, they have learned to research their prescriptions before filling them, they check their prescriptions when filling them, they question their doctors and compare their doctors answers with the answers they find elsewhere, they are always aware of the fact that side effects can and do appear at any time and they don't believe everything they read or hear...but as a result they are able to manage their lives and their hypertension.
Take care, Wannabe...but do your reading, :angel:, and check out everything you read. Just because it's in print, and just because someone said "tis so" doesn't mean it is.
Bethsheba
Wannabe,
Yes, I know you are scared...but sometimes (although it's uncomfortable) scared is good...because people who aren't scared can sometimes do dumb things. Fear can protect us to a degree...but of course, as we've mentioned in the past it can cripple us as well.
Don't assume you will never be off the meds as you are putting the cart before the horse. You're worrying about the wrong things now...if you are going to worry, do it wisely. Choose your cares well, :).
The reason I posted my comment about "drugs that save lives can kill" is because there are some posters on these boards who offer support by saying that these meds have "few" side effects and warn of the dangers of stroke and hypertension. When you read some of these posts, keep in mind that some of the people who offer this kind of "support" have never taken a blood pressure medication in their life (you can read their posts if you don't believe me) and are not aware that when you take a medication you may be assuming other risks. I am well aware of the dangers of stroke and other problems...but I am also aware of the dangers of medication because I have experienced them on ALL of the medications that I have taken in the past 3 years.
I can't tell you if a diuretic is safe or not. No one can! What I can tell you is that I've known people who have taken diuretics for over 20 years without major problems and their blood pressure was well controlled :angel:. I can also tell you is that I had serious problems that may have been avoided had I been more versed on the side effects and who should or should not take a diuretic (I sweat like a pig, and have trouble keeping hydrated without being on a diuretic, spend alot of time outside in the summer, have a mild family history of gout, diabetes, and surprise! allergies all of which are reasons I shoudn't have been on a diuretic in the first place).
....P.S. - I was over the flu in the beg. of Jan...the diarrhea only lasted a couple days...then my temp went down and stayed low for about 4 days and scared me. I felt the after effects for weeks...I think I still am.
Wannabe, are you taking any vitamin supplements? If you are, does your doctor know? Some can cause diarrhea...magnesium for instance. Was your temp "high" when you had the stomach flu? You don't usually get a temp with the stomach flu and I would suspect something else if your temp was high.
I can't offer you more help at this point because I really don't know what your hypertension background is...but I will say I've been on 5 different medications (monotherapy) over the past 3-4 years, all with relatively severe side effects, and I have learned alot as a result. My doctor told me I would be on meds the rest of my life because my pressures were so high....but I'm no longer on meds and although my pressures may be a little higher than I'd like (123/86) or so, I can still make some more life style changes (exercise).
You may or may not have to be on meds...some people have to be and there is nothing wrong with that. There are some wonderful "sucess" stories of people here who take medication and may have to the rest of their lives...but they are smart people who have learned along the way...they have made the necessary lifestyle changes, they have learned to research their prescriptions before filling them, they check their prescriptions when filling them, they question their doctors and compare their doctors answers with the answers they find elsewhere, they are always aware of the fact that side effects can and do appear at any time and they don't believe everything they read or hear...but as a result they are able to manage their lives and their hypertension.
Take care, Wannabe...but do your reading, :angel:, and check out everything you read. Just because it's in print, and just because someone said "tis so" doesn't mean it is.
Bethsheba
WannaBeDrugFree
03-10-2008, 08:04 PM
TY, Bethsheba.
My daughter had influenza with a very high fever, which I caught from her. I didn't begin taking magnesium till later...much later, trying to get the nerve and muscle issues to subside in my legs after the flu drained me. I also take Osteo-Bi-Flex, chewable vitamin C, and sometimes probiotics and papaya enzymes(for my stomach).
I have been on the Cardizem for almost 5 years. I was mostly fine, except for some dizziness with the med, till my Dad died, my stress got HUGE, along with higher bp and had to be upped to 240 and then 300mgs and now back down to 240 with a diuretic. If I am down in my weight, my bp is fine...if I gain weight, it goes up...just like my Mom. She is very heavy now, so her bp is a problem, too. She is also on cholesterol meds and sugar pills for her diabetes...all caused by her high weight...tho I read her beta blocker could cause diabetes, too. Is it true a diuretic can do that, as well??? She also has glaucoma from her diabetes. :(
I wanted off the first med, let alone adding the diuretic, but since my anxiety levels grew so high, so did my bp and I was having chest pains and very high readings, even laying down. The fear of death made me make these dose and med changes...otherwise for the past 4+ years, I was dead-set against going up...when I wanted to go down and then off the Cardizem.
Anyway...with my Mom having diabetes and me not always drinking enough water...can I still be okay with this diuretic till I can get my bp under control and eventually drop the diuretic and then the taper the Cardizem???
My daughter had influenza with a very high fever, which I caught from her. I didn't begin taking magnesium till later...much later, trying to get the nerve and muscle issues to subside in my legs after the flu drained me. I also take Osteo-Bi-Flex, chewable vitamin C, and sometimes probiotics and papaya enzymes(for my stomach).
I have been on the Cardizem for almost 5 years. I was mostly fine, except for some dizziness with the med, till my Dad died, my stress got HUGE, along with higher bp and had to be upped to 240 and then 300mgs and now back down to 240 with a diuretic. If I am down in my weight, my bp is fine...if I gain weight, it goes up...just like my Mom. She is very heavy now, so her bp is a problem, too. She is also on cholesterol meds and sugar pills for her diabetes...all caused by her high weight...tho I read her beta blocker could cause diabetes, too. Is it true a diuretic can do that, as well??? She also has glaucoma from her diabetes. :(
I wanted off the first med, let alone adding the diuretic, but since my anxiety levels grew so high, so did my bp and I was having chest pains and very high readings, even laying down. The fear of death made me make these dose and med changes...otherwise for the past 4+ years, I was dead-set against going up...when I wanted to go down and then off the Cardizem.
Anyway...with my Mom having diabetes and me not always drinking enough water...can I still be okay with this diuretic till I can get my bp under control and eventually drop the diuretic and then the taper the Cardizem???
bethsheba
03-10-2008, 08:31 PM
Hello Wannabe,
Am very sorry to hear about your father's death. It's quite understandable that you're frightened and anxious. Life experiences can do that to us. It takes time to find a new normal but eventually we do adjust.
Thanks for the info on your daughter...that explains alot. Most of us don't have kids at home, :D, so I don't think of those things...sorry. I have no personal experience with the supplements you take so have nothing to offer there...but do make sure you check your package inserts on the meds to see if there is more info as supplements can alter medications (and side effects) sometimes.
... I was mostly fine, except for some dizziness with the med, till my Dad died, my stress got HUGE, along with higher bp and had to be upped to 240 and then 300mgs and now back down to 240 with a diuretic. If I am down in my weight, my bp is fine...if I gain weight, it goes up...just like my Mom. She is very heavy now, so her bp is a problem, too. She is also on cholesterol meds and sugar pills for her diabetes...all caused by her high weight...tho I read her beta blocker could cause diabetes, too. Is it true a diuretic can do that, as well??? She also has glaucoma from her diabetes. :(
It sounds as if you could make a few changes you could go med free! We'll get to that later. I don't remember if a bb can cause diabetes...I was on one but I just don't remember. As far as the diuretic, I don't know if it can CAUSE diabetes...but the info I have read says it can "mask" glucose levels, whatever that means...the hct I was on did say that people with diabetes maybe shouldn't take it. Based on what you are saying, a diuretic may not be the best choice for you.
...I wanted off the first med, let alone adding the diuretic, but since my anxiety levels grew so high, so did my bp and I was having chest pains and very high readings, even laying down.
There are some proven medically endorsed med free ways to lower your bp in a short period of time. Based on what you are saying about your weight and your anxiety, I would encourage you to learn more about the DASH diet (it's how I dropped my pressures) and about breathing exercises (and no, you don't have to buy "resperate" spelling??). I think you'd see noticable results within a week or two... not only would these two lifestyle changes reduce your pressures, they would probably reduce your anxiety as well. As someone who is at least 60 pounds overweight I am well aware of weight loss diets...DASH is not a weight loss diet (although you can lose weight on it) but instead a way of eating healthy...it's good for people with diabetes and heart disease so you can't go wrong there. People who have DASHed have often been able to "give up" at least one medication (two if they've also lost weight).
...can I still be okay with this diuretic till I can get my bp under control and eventually drop the diuretic and then the taper the Cardizem???
Hard to say, but the important thing to know here is that you are AWARE of some of the things you need to look for and to monitor....that is half the battle! But if it were me, I think I would try the DASH plan and the breathing exercises first...and if that didn't work, I would consider the medication.
Bethsheba
Am very sorry to hear about your father's death. It's quite understandable that you're frightened and anxious. Life experiences can do that to us. It takes time to find a new normal but eventually we do adjust.
Thanks for the info on your daughter...that explains alot. Most of us don't have kids at home, :D, so I don't think of those things...sorry. I have no personal experience with the supplements you take so have nothing to offer there...but do make sure you check your package inserts on the meds to see if there is more info as supplements can alter medications (and side effects) sometimes.
... I was mostly fine, except for some dizziness with the med, till my Dad died, my stress got HUGE, along with higher bp and had to be upped to 240 and then 300mgs and now back down to 240 with a diuretic. If I am down in my weight, my bp is fine...if I gain weight, it goes up...just like my Mom. She is very heavy now, so her bp is a problem, too. She is also on cholesterol meds and sugar pills for her diabetes...all caused by her high weight...tho I read her beta blocker could cause diabetes, too. Is it true a diuretic can do that, as well??? She also has glaucoma from her diabetes. :(
It sounds as if you could make a few changes you could go med free! We'll get to that later. I don't remember if a bb can cause diabetes...I was on one but I just don't remember. As far as the diuretic, I don't know if it can CAUSE diabetes...but the info I have read says it can "mask" glucose levels, whatever that means...the hct I was on did say that people with diabetes maybe shouldn't take it. Based on what you are saying, a diuretic may not be the best choice for you.
...I wanted off the first med, let alone adding the diuretic, but since my anxiety levels grew so high, so did my bp and I was having chest pains and very high readings, even laying down.
There are some proven medically endorsed med free ways to lower your bp in a short period of time. Based on what you are saying about your weight and your anxiety, I would encourage you to learn more about the DASH diet (it's how I dropped my pressures) and about breathing exercises (and no, you don't have to buy "resperate" spelling??). I think you'd see noticable results within a week or two... not only would these two lifestyle changes reduce your pressures, they would probably reduce your anxiety as well. As someone who is at least 60 pounds overweight I am well aware of weight loss diets...DASH is not a weight loss diet (although you can lose weight on it) but instead a way of eating healthy...it's good for people with diabetes and heart disease so you can't go wrong there. People who have DASHed have often been able to "give up" at least one medication (two if they've also lost weight).
...can I still be okay with this diuretic till I can get my bp under control and eventually drop the diuretic and then the taper the Cardizem???
Hard to say, but the important thing to know here is that you are AWARE of some of the things you need to look for and to monitor....that is half the battle! But if it were me, I think I would try the DASH plan and the breathing exercises first...and if that didn't work, I would consider the medication.
Bethsheba