I've been diagnosed with mild hypertension and borderline diabetes, both a few years back. I've been on Metformin for about two years and my HGA1C is down to 5.7. After being on Micardis 40 mg for several years and having my pressure back in the normal range, a doctor (not my regular doc) suggested I try doing without it for 6 months. My pressure used to be about 140 over 90 w/o meds, but I think from having started swimming regularly some 14 months ago, I have brought it down to an average (resting) rate of about 135/73 (with a resting pulse in the 65-74 range). I went back to my regular doc and he wants me to go back on the BP meds, because he believes in an "aggressive" approach and says it is still too high. He also says that Micardis will help protect my kidneys.
I am wondering two things...
1) Should I always and everywhere listen to the doc...or get a second opinion. What will the meds do to my swimming times? Positive or negative effect...or does it differ from person to person? Anyone with any experience with this?
2) If my bottom number is already as low as 73, I am wondering how safe it is for it to possibly go down another ten points.
BTW...I am 55.
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Former Member
I've quite a bit of experience in this area, as I'm an internist. Several thoughts. First, great job with lowering both your glucose and BP; hope you've enjoyed the process of getting fit and feeling well.
Your current pressures are probably fine without medication; you're on the fence. I'd wonder what your urine protein is; if its up at all, you should go back on a low dose of Micardis. If not, you could do without it. Many of us thought that pushing bp down lower would always be better, but excellent clinical trials reported in the last few years show that this isn't the case. Still, I'd doubt the Micardis will affect your swimming if you do restart it.
Whether to trust one physician or always get another opinion is the toughest question. You obviously want someone who is willing to listen to your preferences and input before making a final decision.
Good luck, and keep swimming!
I've quite a bit of experience in this area, as I'm an internist. Several thoughts. First, great job with lowering both your glucose and BP; hope you've enjoyed the process of getting fit and feeling well.
Your current pressures are probably fine without medication; you're on the fence. I'd wonder what your urine protein is; if its up at all, you should go back on a low dose of Micardis. If not, you could do without it. Many of us thought that pushing bp down lower would always be better, but excellent clinical trials reported in the last few years show that this isn't the case. Still, I'd doubt the Micardis will affect your swimming if you do restart it.
Whether to trust one physician or always get another opinion is the toughest question. You obviously want someone who is willing to listen to your preferences and input before making a final decision.
Good luck, and keep swimming!
