My husband has been on BP meds for some time and has not had a great amount of success in lowering his numbers. His physician has tried him on several different meds and of all the only one that worked for him was Lisinopril but he had to stop taking it because he developed the dry cough. Recently our insurance changed and he now has to pay for his meds out of pocket until the deductible is met. The meds are usually about $300/month. He has stopped using salt at the table and has begun an exercise regime. His numbers have come down and so he decided without talking to his physician 1st to stop the meds. I had a suspicion he had done this and so I confronted him and he told me that he had stopped taking the meds. I am an RN and am concerned that this may be very harmful to him in the long run. I have talked with him at length about this and he seems unconcerned. I have also threatened to talk with his doc about what he has done. The meds he has been on are Diovan and until recently Guanficine. What can I do to convince him that he may be in danger? Thanks, Jackie
Hi, Mild hypertension may be controlled with diet modification, exercise and reduction of stress. But severe hypertension if not treated can lead to complications. Stroke, hemorrhage, heart attack, atherosclerosis or renal complications can occur in untreated hypertension. It is essential to continue the Chat Doctor.  Frequent monitoring of blood pressure is also essential. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.