Ask Dr. Rowena

Photo Dr. Rowena Your questions about high blood pressure answered by a board certified doctor. Browse the categories in the left menu.

Impact on blood pressure when on an airplane.

Q: Does being on an air plane for prolonged periods impact blood flow or aneurysms?

A: Prolonged sitting on an airplane can increase the risk of blood clots forming, especially in the legs. Although space is limited, it helps to do a few stretches. Do be...

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The effect of nasal saline salt on blood pressure.

Q: Does a person absorb enough of the salt in a nasal saline wash to raise blood pressure?

A: Nasal saline washes are made to have the same salt concentration as the body. This means you can wash the inside of your nose with the solution...

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Massages and blood pressure.

Q: Is it safe to get a massage when BP averages 130/82?

A: Massage is felt to be a safe procedure when performed by a trained professional. Blood pressure does not have to be normal to get a massage. To learn more about the different types...

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Feeling overmedicated for controlling blood pressure.

Q: I very strongly believe that I am heavily over-medicated. I am on Adalat90mg (Nifedipine), Metoprolol100mg, Atacand 32mg (Candesartan), Ezetrol 10mg and Aspirin 1-a-day. At 220lbs, 5’11”,and bp averaging 160/85, with no noticeable side effects, I am very worried and I strongly believe that I...

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Smoking and natural ways to lower blood pressure.

Q: I have high blood pressure, last reading was 180/80 i am not taking any medication, is there any from of exercise that can reduce my pressure. Does smoking increase BP please advise

A: Exercise in any form will help lower your blood pressure. Walking is...

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Pushing your heart too hard during exercise

Q: I am taking medication to lower my blood pressure and prevent auricular fibrillation. Usually my blood pressure is 110 – 140 sys and 65 – 69 dys pulse rate <60. I take regular exercise three times a week at the gym. Usually my pulse...

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Completely stopping medications.

Q: What happens when you go off Diovan blood pressure med. cold turkey?

A: Unlike some blood pressure medicines, stopping Diovan (valsartan) abruptly will not cause a sudden increase in blood pressure. Rebound high blood pressure is not a problem with this drug. Keep in mind,...

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Supplements causing unstable blood pressure.

Q: Since 1981 I’ve had 90/60 pulse 55 or 60. Since November 2011 haven’t felt good. Blood test shows everything good. Now I am 198/110 and then it can go down to 130/80. Drs don’t know why this is going on. I am a vegan...

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Blood pressure spikes, with otherwise normal blood pressure.

Q: My blood pressure is normal to low during the day. About once or twice a month, it goes up to 197/102. I’ve have all kinds of tests. My heart is good; hormones good; doctors can’t treat because if they give me medication when my...

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Reducing medications once blood pressure is under control.

Q: I have been on a few BP meds for many years (acebutolol-400×2), (lisinopril-20×2), (Hydrochlorthiazide-25), (amlodipine besylate-10)… my readings are now typically running 125-135/62-72 p51-59 (my sugars are also normal with 4.5 before dinner)…. My question is can I start thinking about a reduction in...

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