Problems With My Blood Pressure

[hellywelly4]

Last week I passed out in a shop and went to A and E. it was caused by low BP, low Sodium and low Potassium. After medication the sodium and potassium levels are now ok. I was told to stop my three BP tablets - Tildiem, Doxasosin (sp?) and Losartan and to take Amlodipine 5mg, but to start with 2.5.
I just took my bp at home (perhaps I shouldn't have done) and on the first reading my bp was 178/87 and then 191/75.
Should I do anything - take the other 2.5 or one of my old tablets? Both parents died from strokes - father 61 and mother 74.
Trying not to panic. The doctor said he takes many patients my age (77). off bp tablets altogether.

[Mamyalynne]

As you rightly say, don't panic - take meds as prescribed today and get a message through to the surgery in the morning to see if they want you to alter the regime.

[Sqad]

First of all, Tildium ,Losartan and Doxasosin is a fair old "whack " of BP lowering drugs , although you haven't given the doses and that in itself could lower you BP to account for passing out and you trip to A&E.
BP 178/87 and 191/75 is unacceptable to someone who clearly has been on multiple BP lowering drugs and a family history that you have described.
Amlodipine 2.5 is a "p1ssy" little dose, particularly by someone who has been used to significant BP medication.....increase your Amlodipine to 5mgms once a day and monitor your BP at least twice daily initially.

Keep us informed.

[hellywelly4]

Thank you so much sqad. I am going to ring the doctor when they open at 8.30. Will let you know what they say.

[hellywelly4]

Update for sqad - the doctor told me to take the full dose (5mg) of Amlodipine and to monitor my BP, which is what you said. It was 175/75 at the surgery. I feel reassured and know that I can go back to talk to him any time. We are so lucky in my village to have such a supportive GP practice. Thanks for your comment too Mamy - it did help last night as I was very worried. Fingers crossed this will be the answer.

[Mamyalynne]

I didn't like to see you go unanswered so late in the evening, glad you got good advice from both Sqad and your GP.x

[Sqad]

Seems reasonable.....and thanks for the feedback.