I wondered whether anyone on here has successfully tried lowering their blood pressure without medication? If so, how did you do it and how did you argue your case with your doctor?
Five years after heart valve surgery for a congenital condition and with AF, I am very well, not overweight and have never smoked. All was satisfactory at a recent cardiology check up, except for high systolic BP. I’m waiting for a letter with the exact figures but the diastolic was lower than 80.
Doctor has requested a 24 hour monitor which I have agreed to have. I used to take my BP at home but haven’t done so for some months.
Anticipating that they will suggest medication. I already take Digoxin, Bisoprolol, Levothyroxine and Rivaroxaban and am unwilling to add to the list, particularly if a diuretic is involved. Any suggestions or experiences gratefully received.
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Mrspat
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Hi Mrspat, I'm sure you have googled all the healthy eating stuff because even if you are not overweight, your diet may not help and have an impact on your BP. I'm thinking of salt intake which can be difficult to monitor with all the processed foods that are available. Regular exercise is great too, I try to walk a couple of miles every day which may not seem a lot, but I think it helps. I'm not a great one for supplements, but I have tried natural beetroot juice but whether or not it did any good, who knows!
Hiding the BP monitor is useful too for some people as the more you use it, the more it seems to rise. Keeping stress levels low is very helpful, I try to tell myself, will I remember what I'm worrying about now in two weeks time.....works for me!!!
The other thing is it is sometimes difficult to know what is deemed as acceptable BP levels which seem to change as you age. One cardiologist said that 140/90 was ok for a man of of my age (71).....fortunately mine seems to stay lower that that....
Hi, Same answer as Rosy - l have got it right down by walking..C
Thanks for replies so far. I swim three times a week and use an exercise bike as well. While I don’t make every meal from scratch, I do watch my salt and fat intake. I rarely get stressed about things. I’m concerned about being given medication for something that has no apparent cause. Has anyone found Tai Chi helpful or discussed it with their doctor?
As Hidden mentions, beetroot juice is said to be helpful - 7oz per day I understand.
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