Q: I am having an operation in a fortnight [2 weeks] and although my BP was a bit high at pre-op tests, it has been checked since and is now 150/105. Is there any way I can help to get this down in time for the operation?
A: Blood pressure drugs can bring blood pressure down quickly. For most people, lifestyle changes usually take more than two weeks to make an impact. When one is undergoing surgery, it may be best to hold off treatment until after surgery because of the interactions between certain blood pressure drugs and anesthesia. You should discuss this further with your doctor, surgeon and anesthetist.