I m 39 and have been taking diovan for high blood pressure for 4 years. This past year I have gained about 30 pounds and I have had 2 or 3 episodes of high blood pressure. One example, I started having a headache after lunch and by 5pm I was at ER with 200/101. Doctors did several EKG s, blood work, stayed over night for stress test next morning, echocardio gram, xrays...etc. I followed up with cardiologist who suggested diet changes and recording BP. So now for about 3 months all has been good, but the last 2 days I am experiencing another episode . Headaches with 135/99 and 141/96. Could this be related to my menstrual cycle? I just ended this month s cycle. Just looking for answers that maybe could be related to something else.
Hello! Welcome and thank you for asking on Chat Doctor! I understand your concern and would explain that the headaches do not seem to be related to high blood pressure, as your actual blood pressure values are within the normal ranges or slightly elevated. In my opinion the headaches could be related to the menstrual cycle or tension type headache. For this reason, I would recommend trying acetaminophen or ibuprofen for the headaches. Regarding high blood pressure values, I would recommend trying to lose some pounds and perform a lot of physical activity in order to have lower blood pressure values naturally. Reducing salt and caffeine intake would also help. Hope you will find this answer helpful! Best wishes,