Expert: Domenic Sica - 10/12/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi .I,m 50 years old with HBP . All the meds we try wont keep it stable . Sometimes its 180/98 when its low and as high as 210/120 and higher in some cases . Renal scan was fine and so was another test that I cant recall the name of it . Any ways after somemore tests the doc says the wall of my left ventrical is alot thicker then normal and that is cuasing my problem . If thats so then why are they keeping me on the HBP meds ? I dont see how the meds "Lotrel" "Toprol" and others would help the thicker left ventrical wall . Dont the HPB meds just open or releaxe the blood vessels ? What would you do if you had a patiant with my problem . Thanks . Bob

ANSWER: I would be looking carefully as to what medications I am on such that the right combination is in use. Also, the medications being used shrink the size of the ventricular wall as well as dilate blood vessels. It sounds like you need a good hypertension specialist if you are not already seeing one. What part of the country are you in ?

Regards,

Domenic Sica, M.D.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: No I'm not seeing a specialist . I would if you know of one in my area . I'm in Columbus Georgia .Thanks

Answer
The medicines you mention also "remodel" the heart separately; thus, a possible reason why you are staying on them. With the blood pressure pattern you describe you probably need to see a hypertension specialist. What part of the country are you living in since I may have a colleague near you.

Regards,

Domenic Sica, M.D.