What to expect

think you’re at risk? dr Andrew thornber, chief medical officer at Now Patient (nowpatient.com), explains what will happen…

the test

“Your GP will be concerned if your reading is 140/90mmhg or higher, but it varies from person to person and can fluctuate, so you will have this rechecked several times at different points throughout the day.”

the medicAtioN

“if your readings are consistently high but your risk of other problems is low, you will be advised to make changes to your lifestyle first. other people will need to take a combination of different medicines, depending on age and ethnicity. For example, those under 55 years of age will usually be offered an Ace inhibitor or an angiotensin ii receptor blocker (ArB). Aged 55 or older (or if you’re any age and of African or caribbean origin), you’ll usually be offered a calcium channel blocker. other medications include diuretics and beta blockers.”

the side eFFects

“most people don’t experience side effects, while others do but find they wear off. these can include a dry cough, feeling dizzy, a rash, upset stomach, headache, flu-like symptoms, slow heartbeat, swelling of the hands and feet, and weight gain. see your GP, as taking two or more medicines at lower doses may be as effective as one medicine at a high dose, and would be less likely to cause side effects.”

the Future

“sadly, some people will take this medication for the rest of their life. however, your GP will review it over time and may be able to reduce or stop treatment if your blood pressure stays consistent.” >>