Blood pressure is rising to fast for me to feel comfortable. What can I do?

Hello Teresa,

I can understand why you are worried about your blood pressure.  But let me try to put you at ease: a blood pressure of 150/98 is higher than it should be for you to be healthy, but it's not so high your likely to have a aneurysm, stroke or some other serious complication immediately.

When you have a new diagnosis of high blood pressure, it is a good idea to record your readings about 2-3 times a day (at least once!) for 1-2 weeks.  Take these readings to your doctor and discuss what medications you can take to help lower your pressure.

You should also consider some lifestyle changes to help lower your pressure.  First, try to exercise 4 times a week for 35-45 minutes.   If you are overweight, try to lose weight.  Also, reduce your salt intake to no more than 4 grams of salt per day.  I know these sound difficult, (and you are right, they are) but it will definitely help lower your BP!

Klonopin is not a blood pressure medication, and is perscribed for anxiety.  Your abdominal ultrasound was likely to see if you have gall bladder disease.  Your anxiety and pain can definitely contribute to high blood pressure.  I hope your pain has resolved.

So I think your plan should be for now to take your BP as I discuss above, start your lifestyle changes, make another appointment with your doctor to discuss the numbers and what medication you need to be on.  Also, be sure to tell him if your abdominal pain continues.  

If you feel he is not being responsive to your needs and health issues, go to another doctor.  Find one who appreciates your business!!!!!!

Hope this helps.

To your health,

Neil MD