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What Causes Fluctuation In Blood Pressure?
I am a woman and have just turned 70. I have been taking 5 mg Ramipril for many years for high blood pressure; this has, more or less, kept it at a normal level. Because of side-effects, I asked my doctor to prescribe a lower dose, i.e., 2.5 mg, a week ago. I find that my BP readings fluctuate. For instance, half an hour after getting up this morning, it was 132/78; 3 hours later, I began to feel light-headed and BP was 102/73, then 109/73. Can you tell me why this is.
Mon, 31 Aug 2015
Hello, madame! Welcome to HCM. I understand your concern.
Blood pressure is a variant component of examination. It varies in great figures throughout a day. I understand that this can come as a concern and a worrisome event to non-medical community, but there are a myriad of reasons that cause the blood pressure to fluctuate from day to day, even from hour to hour. These blood pressure-fluctuating factors can be physical activity, psychological stress, extreme temperatures (when it is hot outside, arteries dilate, hence low blood pressure), physiological diurnal and nocturnal changes in hormone levels etc. Blood pressure is not a credible component if it is measured separately, after some activity, after caffeine-containing beverages, and in the doctor's office (white coat syndrome). Also, blood pressure can be considered low when under 100/60 mmHg.
Ramipril is a safe and effective drug in high blood pressure control. It has rare side effects, predominantly with dry cough, and is counterindicated when there is damage to the kidney function. Dosage of 2.5 mg/day is a good dosage, if it controls the high blood pressure.
I hope I was of help. Take care.
Regards,
Dr. Meriton
Blood pressure is a variant component of examination. It varies in great figures throughout a day. I understand that this can come as a concern and a worrisome event to non-medical community, but there are a myriad of reasons that cause the blood pressure to fluctuate from day to day, even from hour to hour. These blood pressure-fluctuating factors can be physical activity, psychological stress, extreme temperatures (when it is hot outside, arteries dilate, hence low blood pressure), physiological diurnal and nocturnal changes in hormone levels etc. Blood pressure is not a credible component if it is measured separately, after some activity, after caffeine-containing beverages, and in the doctor's office (white coat syndrome). Also, blood pressure can be considered low when under 100/60 mmHg.
Ramipril is a safe and effective drug in high blood pressure control. It has rare side effects, predominantly with dry cough, and is counterindicated when there is damage to the kidney function. Dosage of 2.5 mg/day is a good dosage, if it controls the high blood pressure.
I hope I was of help. Take care.
Regards,
Dr. Meriton
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