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.

Swelling in one leg.

Q: I just noticed that my left leg is “bigger” than my right one. (i.e. swelling of the calf and thigh) The right one is fine. What could be the cause and what doctor do I see about this? My thyroid is fine and my...

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Medication causing low libido.

Q: I am hypertensive patient. I take Atenolol pills, Captomax and mylan. I am 49 years old 90kg (198 lbs) weight. Problem is my libido is very low. Also, I don’t feel like talking to my husband anymore. Is it normal or is there something...

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Erectile dysfunction and blood pressure.

Q: My husband is 64 years old and has taken blood pressure meds for several years. Would this blood pressure medicine cause his Erectile Dysfunction?

A: Blood pressure medicines can affect sexual performance. This is why I like the Resperate. It has no side effects and...

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The effect of salt on your blood pressure.

Q: Any time I eat foods containing salt my BP skyrockets and yet when I avoid salt I get leg cramps. What should I do?

A: Moderation is the key. I would avoid eating foods high in salt unless it was a very hot day and...

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Best time to get an accurate blood pressure reading

Q: I take my blood pressure reading every morning and it’s always normal; however, when I get home in the evening, the reading can be around 160/90. WHEN is the best time to take an accurate reading of blood pressure? I am not on any...

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Hyperthyroidism and hypertension

Q: I have high calcium – hyperparathyroidism- does this affect high blood pressure? My pressure is extremely high

A: Hyperparathyroidism is associated with high blood pressure. I am sure your doctor is trying to get both your hyperparathyroidism and blood pressure in control. To learn...

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How fast your blood vessels contract

Q: Can 100 mg of caffeine increase BP? I am taking Oxyelite (a fat burner) and it has 100 mg of caffeine in it per capsule. My BP right now is 140/92. I have also been drinking alcohol and gained weight three weeks ago, at...

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Lower energy while taking beta blockers.

Q: I have a question about medication side effects. I’m not sure what is a side-effect and what might be related to age. I have had high blood pressure 190/120 for a couple of years that is difficult to treat. Lisinopril and Hydrochlorozide worked for...

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Taking supplements.

Q: I am a heart attack patient and hypertensive. I am on statins, ARB, blood thinners and anti-arrhythmia+ beta drug, Sotalol. Is it worthwhile to take supplements of Coenzyme Q10 and Omega3 acids?

A: With any drug or supplement you run the risk of side effects...

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How many drugs it takes to lower blood pressure.

Q: I’ve diagnosed for over 10 years of high blood pressure. Currently my doctor has me on 4 medications. They are Atenolol (5mg), Amlodipine (Vorvasc) 5 mg, and Lisinopril/Hctz )20 mg and 12.25 2twice a day. Do I really need this many drugs to control...

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