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5 Reasons Why Your Blood Pressure Medications Aren’t Working

Here are 5 reasons why your blood pressure meds might not be working

5 Reasons Why Your Blood Pressure Medications Aren't Working

Are you currently taking medication that hasn't seem to control your blood pressure the way it should? Usually it's not just one cause that contributes to high blood pressure, it's multiple factors. Here are 5 reasons why your blood pressure meds might not be working:

  1. You Could Be Experiencing White Coat Hypertension

    When you get nervous about seeing your doctor and hoping that your blood pressure is under control, you cause your blood pressure to spike and give a false sense that your blood pressure is high. Try arriving at your doctor's office earlier than normal to give yourself a chance to relax from the rush of traveling. Take some big deep breaths when you sit down in the office for at least 5 minutes. Talk to your doctor if this is a concern for you.

  2. You Might Not Be Taking the Medication Properly

    Are you forgetting to take your medication sometimes? Are you taking any other medications? They might be interfering with your blood pressure meds. Talk to your doctor about the other types of medications you are on and any concerns you have. Simple drugs like pain relievers, birth control, and nasal decongestions can sometimes interfere with blood pressure medications.

  3. You May Be Eating an Unhealthy Diet

    Check your diet. Are you eating foods high in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low in sodium? If not, your diet could be the reason for the little to no movement in your blood pressure levels. Even if you avoid the salt shaker at the dinner table, you need to check the processed foods you are eating, which could be extremely high in sodium, as they usually are. Talk to a registered dietitian so they can show you what to eat and what to avoid.

  4. You're Overweight and/or Inactive

    If you're overweight, losing weight and having an active lifestyle will definitely help to lower your blood pressure. Increase your physical activity to at least 30 minutes each day and avoid alcohol and cigarettes.

  5. You Could Have Other Medical Conditions That Are Affecting Your Blood Pressure

    Your blood pressure should not be higher than 140/90 mmHg (or higher than 150/90 mmHg in older people). Resistant hypertension is blood pressure above the goal despite being on at least three different blood pressure medications at optimal doses. If your blood pressure medication doesn't seem to be working, your doctor may refer you to a hypertension specialist recognized by the American  Society of Hypertension. This specialist will find the best treatment plan for you.

Source: Cleveland Clinic

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