Why does my blood pressure fluctuate so much and my pulse stay low.?

Dave Carter,

Thanks for your question.  First of all, the reason your pulse stays so low is the Lopressor your are taking.  This works  on the hearts electrical system and keep you heart rate low, no matter how much activity or exercising you are doing.  Though Lopressor does affect blood pressure, it's effects are not as predictable as the pulse rate. 

Exercise, in general will cause a rise in BP, which is a natural response.  Also, anxiety can cause a rise in pressure.  Your numbers are not that high, and knowing that exercise is good for your heart, as well as important in your effort to lose weight, I suggest you go ahead and perform you needed activity program, as long as you don't overdo it.  Most people feel that you have to get a hard work out, build up  a lot of sweat, and exhaust yourself to gain any benefit.  This is not true.  Moderate exercise, like brisk walking for twenty minutes three times a day has been shown to provide great benefit to the heart and vascular system.  Get guidance from your physician on the degree and length of a program considering your heart problem.  You might have to consult with a fitness expert or even an exercise physiologist to set up a program that is right for you and help attain your goals.

Best wishes.

Martin Cane, M.D.

Dave,

In my answer, I meant that it is beneficial to brisk walk three times a week, not a day.

Sorry for the error.

Dr. Cane