Low blood pressure

[Figarojane]

I am taking methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine and have managed for 3 years with very few side effects. I have recently become quite dizzy and unbalanced and also have slightly low blood pressure ? I can see that high blood pressure is sometimes an issue with meds but has anyone experienced low BP as a result of meds or RA please ?

[Leics]

I haven’t had the issue of low BP but my neighbour has she was falling all over the place. Although she doesn’t have RA she is type 2 diabetic the advice for her was to increase her fluids which she did and hey presto her low BP was sorted. So try and stay hydrated or increase your fluids and see if it helps but if it persists go and see your GP might be an idea anyway to get it checked and some proper medical advice they will be able to assess that there’s nothing else going on. I’ve been led to believe there isn’t much they can do for low BP.

[Figarojane in reply to Leics]

Thank you so much I will try that, really grateful for your support 👍 x

[Leics in reply to Figarojane]

I hope it helps but might be a plan to get it checked.

[oldtimer2]

I have 'postural hypotension'. That is: the pressure falls when I move from sitting (or lying) to standing and can fall over. It is apparently increasingly common as you get older (although you are not old at all!) Adequate hydration (drinking enough fluid) helps, as does moving more slowly between positions.

If you have a home blood pressure monitor, you should be able to determine for yourself whether this is happening. And if it improves with increasing your fluid intake - BUT don't overdo the fluids and end up with a low sodium level instead (can happen if you drink TOO much fluid). That's dangerous too ....

Some people naturally just have a lower blood pressure but it sounds as if your have a new problem.

[welsh12]

I take both and have had these symptoms particularly when I was unwell with a cold for weeks. Which as others said may be linked to hydration.My hydroxychloroquine has been reduced was on 400mg which was 100mg too much for my weight that's another story. Had bloods checks including thyroid and vits and have a blood pressure monitor. Dizziness and balance issues improved recently. Still have a few other side effects which are being looked at. If you look at leaflet on hydroxychloroquine some of these are the side effects. I had been on it for some time before they kicked in hopefully will settle soon mention to gp rheumatology otherwise.

[AcerGriseum]

yes I have been experiencing low blood pressure for a long time. I’m on Rituxmabab but they have recently thought it was due to heart meds that I am on and are reducing these.