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BP High, Overweight. Family History Of Strokes, Heart Problems, Swollen Feet, Ankles, Short Of Breath
my blood pressure is 159/109, I am 57 and overweight . I am supposed to be taking blood pressure pills but havent taken them for a few months now cause of the unwanted side effects. my pulse is 87 and there is family history of strokes and heart problems. lately, I am having a lot of problems with swollen feet , ankles up to knees, and also fingers, hands. I feel ok, however I am tired and sometimes short of breath. Thank you
posted on
Sun, 6 Jan 2013
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Thu, 30 May 2013
Answered on
Fri, 31 May 2013
Last reviewed on
Dear patient,
I strongly urge you to go to your physician and discuss new treatment options for hypertension. Fortunately, there are more than 6 classes of drugs for high blood pressure, each group with several members, so that if you experience a side effect you can try another type. It is likely that you will need at least 2 medications or more given your numbers. I want to emphasize that elevated blood pressure is the single most important risk factor for stroke, which can be prevented. You definitely should not follow your family history of stroke, so acting now is crucial.
Hope that helps, blessings
Dr brenes-Salazar MD
Cardiology
Mayo Clinic MN
I strongly urge you to go to your physician and discuss new treatment options for hypertension. Fortunately, there are more than 6 classes of drugs for high blood pressure, each group with several members, so that if you experience a side effect you can try another type. It is likely that you will need at least 2 medications or more given your numbers. I want to emphasize that elevated blood pressure is the single most important risk factor for stroke, which can be prevented. You definitely should not follow your family history of stroke, so acting now is crucial.
Hope that helps, blessings
Dr brenes-Salazar MD
Cardiology
Mayo Clinic MN
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