ET and Blood Pressure

[JollyGood25]

I have read that interferon can cause heart damage, I have not had heart fluttering or high blood pressure until recently, not sure if an interferon side effect. Anybody else had this problem ? Interferon otherwise is brilliant for me in keeping platelets controlled. Haematology again have said BP, heart issues, are for my GP to deal with. My question now. I have been started on amlomidopine, 4 weeks almost, BP still high, dialostic always 90's Do you have high BP with ET, what medication is safest and effective ? Natural remedies ? Any help, advice appreciated, in a mission to sort myself, what do I ask for at GP next week

[hunter5582]

The interferons can cause heart issues and hypertension; however, these issues can co-occur as well. It can be tricky to figure out. Sometimes timing is the best clue. If the issues you are experiencing are an interferon adverse effect, then it is the province of the hematology team to address. If they are unrelated to the interferon, then the hematology team still needs to be involved even if the GP is treating. Cardiovascular issues are a significant risk factor when someone has ET.

When my BP was elevated, I found losartan to be the most effective and easiest medication to tolerate. Losartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker. I did not find lisinopril (ACE inhibitor) or atenolol (beta blocker) to be tolerable. I also have used diltiazem, which is a calcium channel blocker like amlodipine. Diltiazem was actually for tachycardia and had the side effect of worsening the constipation that hydroxyurea caused.

There are some things that are "natural" that can be helpful. Suggest consulting with and Integrative or Functional medicine doctor about these interventions. There are also lifestyle choices that can help, specifically diet, weight control and exercise. The DASH diet can be helpful.

Wishing you success moving forward.

[JollyGood25 in reply to hunter5582]

Thanks Hunter