Why is my BP going down?

[itzmich]

Been on BP meds since my early 30's controlled until I was diagnosed with stage 3 ckd (GFR35) started increasing and they added medication. Taking 2 different kinds. Then they changed from lostartan (unavailable) to telmisartan. After 3 months. My potassium went up (59) and my GFR went down 17pts now stage 4. (GFR23) My BP also went to 58/90 so they took me off all my BP meds. My potassium back to normal and my BP normal without any medication. I don't understand why? Also why hasn't my GFR gone back to 35? Has the high potassium damaged my kidneys more? Of course I've asked these questions to my doctor with no clear answers. Why after 35 years don't I have high BP anymore? Is something else going on?

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

HI I tzmich,

What was you BP when they put you on all that medication for high BP? there is no way I can tell you why now your BP is normal. I would ask the doctor for a clear explanation. But I am wondering if they put you on all those meds without a thorough reason to begin with??? Also, did you lose weight or any other change in your body can affect your BP. As far as you GFR increasing, it might but it will take longer for a rebound. Please...talk to you doctor and demand the answers you need. This is what they get paid for.

[Allank]

I was told to look at the big picture especially the 24 hour urine analysis and see the eGfr in that context

[itzmich in reply to Allank]

Yes I'm trying to wait and see. Thanks

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador in reply to Allank]

Allan,

Very good advice and way of putting it.

My nephrologist always has me do a 24 hour catch prior to each appointment as he tells me that it is considered the " gold star standard" of identification in nephrology as it measures a one day average of your output; where as your spot urine results can often vary via hydration, time of day given.

My doctor also has me leave a sample for him to spin and evaluate when I come in. He looks at both.

Istmich, I thoroughly agree with Bassetmommer, print out a copy of your test results; checking off areas which are flagging high or low as well as ANY questions that you may have.

It is his/ her job to review them with you and make a plan to go forward.

[Dangermom13]

I do know that sodium keeps BP higher, so if you cut back on salt, then that may be a factor.

[itzmich in reply to Dangermom13]

Not eating salt. It normal right now. Thanks.

[Marvila45]

Some blood pressure medications can increase your potassium which can make your blood pressure go down dangerously. It seems that you might have had issues with your kidneys GFR of 17 is stage 4 CKD. Something really impacted your kidneys. Stress, pain killers, serious dehydration, surgery, and even poisoning can do that. You really need to see a Nephrologist.

[itzmich]

Thanks I have been seeing a nephrologist he's testing ever 5 days to see what's going on. Thanks for your response.

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador]

I agree with Bassetmommer,

Don't speculate what is causing the changes; see your doctor and let him/ her asses the problem and set you in a health care plan to go forward.

Get back to us and let us know how the appointment went.