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.

Is there a connection between high blood pressure and hypothyroidism?

Q: Is there any connection between hypothyroid and blood pressure?

A: Yes, thyroid hormones affect the way the heart works. Untreated hypothyroidism can make the heart beat slower, pump less efficiently, and can make blood vessels more rigid. These effects can cause high blood pressure.

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Can colon problems increase blood pressure?

Q: Will colon problems increase BP?

A: The human body functions as a team. Any disease that causes a significant problem for one part of the body can impact other functions. Depending upon what your colon problem is and what medications or treatments you are receiving,...

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What are the symptons of cardiomyopathy?

Q: My father died at 41 from Cardiomyopathy. Does my abnormal swelling at the ankles and feet (with spotty discoloration under the skin and darkening of the veins) have anything to do with the same disease?

A: Disease of the heart or vascular system and other...

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Can hypothyroidism cause high blood pressure?

Q: Could hypothyroidism be a cause of hypertension?

A: Hypothyroidism can be a cause of hypertension. This is usually diastolic hypertension. For more information about hypothyroidism and how it is diagnosed and treated click here.

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Is there an alternative to medication to treat arthritis?

Q: Is there an alternative to medication to treat arthritis? My meds don’t seem to work.

A: A regular exercise program really helps in the treatment of arthritis. You should discuss this with your doctor. It might be appropriate for you to visit a physical therapist...

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Does having a congenital heart problem lead to high blood pressure?

Q: I had an SVASD with a PAPVR repaired in 1960 through open heart surgery. Two years ago, I was diagnosed with high BP and suffered a stroke. Do adults with congenital birth defects that were repaired as children have a higher incidence of high...

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Can blood pressure medications cause arthritis?

Q: I’m on 3 BP meds and have noticed an increase in arthritis all over my body since adding the last medication. Can BP meds cause arthritis?

A: Without knowing what medications you are taking, it is impossible to say if the last drug is responsible...

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Will resperate help with rapid heart rate?

Q: Will RESPeRATE help with PSVT’s (rapid heart rate)? How high of a heart rate can it accurately measure? I have to try to bring my heart rate down when I have an SVT. I tried medication for my SVT’s but it dropped my heart...

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What is considered low blood pressure?

Q: My husband had a four way (quadruple) heart bypass operation six months ago. His blood pressure the last couple of days is around 83 over 57, pulse is 73. Is his blood pressure too low?

A: As long as your husband is not having problems...

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Can someone with asthma use resperate?

Q: I have asthma, both allergy and exercise induced. Two questions: 1) Can asthma meds increase BP? and 2) Can RESPeRATE help asthma as well?

A: Yes, asthma drugs can raise blood pressure but not all of them have this effect. It is important for you...

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