HCTZ woes..! Anyone else? - High & Low Blood Pressure Message Board

momtotwinsplus1 · 10-05-2006, 11:45 PM

Hi all, I am currently taking 12.5 mg HCTZ per day, I have been on it for about a year now, and none of my doc;s have suggested labs to test for potassium or anything else. Lately, Ive noticed an increase in my pvcs/pacs they are harder and more often. Also, for the last 6 months Ive had TERRIBLE (what I thought was) eczema. I mean so itchy Im bruising myself. Ive always had eczema, just not this bad, but now Im starting to wonder if its the HCTZ. I also take propranolol(Inderal) for an irregular heartrate. Im going in on my own to the lab tomorrow to get a potassium test. I need the real skinny, on HCTZ, Im hearing all kinds of things. Any advice or suggestions..? By the way, my BP is great 115/73..
Thanks for your time!

Lenin · 10-06-2006, 06:31 AM

mom,

Make sure you get a sodium reading as well. It is very important.

madfit · 10-06-2006, 03:35 PM

Hi,
First thing, I would do is see another doctor. A doctor who hasn't taken lab tests in a year, when you're on medications is unexcusable. By the way, I don't think you can go on your own, the tests must be ordered by a doctor.
If they do allow it, the tests are expensive and you will pay out of pocket.

I am also on the same HCTZ you're on, 12.5 mg. and my doctor takes tests every 6 months.

arlmon18 · 10-06-2006, 05:48 PM

I also get tested every 6 months, especially since I take Lipitor (cholesterol)

Lenin · 10-07-2006, 06:51 AM

mom,

With a BP controlled to 115/73 with ONLY 12.5 mg. HCTZ, I think it is quite possible that you can get a good enough BP levels without ANY drugs.

I'm assuming that the HCTZ is the ONLY thing you are taking.