Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
BP & Weight Connection
my dad is overweight by probably 50+ lbs his doctor told him that losing weight won t help lower his blood pressure , now I m no doctor but isn t there a clear connection between the two and dropping some pounds should lower his bp? he s on two meds should he change dr.s?
Fri, 11 Dec 2009
User's Response
mariaangeles_'s
Response
Many people who lose weight do have a drop in their blood pressure, but not all. Some forms of hypertension are related to other issues (genetics is one) such as medical conditions. It never hurts to try to lose weight and at least take one contributing factor out of the equation. A second opinion is always an option, but tell your dad to lose the weight first, monitor his blood pressure and if it goes down, I would highly recommend another doctor's opinion. WARNING!! Do not stop taking BP meds without your physicians knowledge!! The results could be devastating. Hope this helps
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Hypertension
Loading Online Doctors....