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.

Heart rate changes and beta blockers

Q: I have had blood pressure readings on average about 139 over 81 with a heart rate of 70, but at times the heart rate drops to 40. When this happens I have no energy and usually have to lay down for several hours. When...

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Side effects of hypertension medicine

Q: I am a 58 year old male and have BP 140 to 150 systolic and around 100 diastolic. I was given an antihypertensive pill but I don’t take it regularly. I just take it when my BP is over 160/100. Please enlighten me about...

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Niacin to treat high cholesterol

Q: I take norvasc and zocor. I would like to know if there is a non prescription herb you can take for high cholesterol. There are so many rumors about cholesterol medications side effects. I hate taking medications but am willing to take something that...

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Aspirin for hypertension?

Q: I saw an article that suggested that low dose aspirin was only effective on blood pressure when taken right before bedtime, and it seemed only in women. What is your opinion — is it good for men and what’s the proper time to take...

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Normal BP upon waking

Q: When one gets up in the morning, what should the average person’s blood pressure measure be?

A: To be considered normal, blood pressure needs to be 120/80 or less. This is true throughout the entire day.

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Breathe for health together

Q: I am using the Resperate at this time. My husband has always had low blood pressure, but last week he suffered a heart attack and they put him on blood-pressure medicine among many others. Can he use Resperate?

A: Generally, a heart attack does not...

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What’s the healthier oil?

Q: What is the healthier oil: ” Grape Seed Oil ” or “Virgin Olive Oil” ?

A: Grape seed oil is polyunsaturated oil while virgin olive oil is monounsaturated oil. In cooking they have different uses. Grapeseed oil holds up better to high heat but olive...

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Chelation therapy

Q: I recently was told I have not only a blood pressure reading of 148/95, but high cholesterol, as well. I am now 60 and have an extremely stressful life. However, I have an awesome diet and do not smoke, am not overweight, etc. I...

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Diet for diabetes and high cholesterol

Q: I have type 2 diabetes, my bad cholesterol is high and my good cholesterol is low. I need some advice about my diet.

A: A diet that helps get your sugar in control will also help with your cholesterol. The national library of medicine provides...

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Connection between BP, cholesterol and blood sugar

Q: What is the connection between high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and high blood pressure and high blood sugar level? Do the drugs for high blood pressure control cause diabetes?

A: Diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure all increase the risk for developing a...

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