Ask Dr. Rowena

Photo Dr. Rowena Your questions about high blood pressure answered by a board certified doctor. Browse the categories in the left menu.

Coconut water and blood pressure.

Q: Does coconut water help reduce high blood pressure?

A: A small and short study published in the West Indian Medical journal a few years ago found that drinking coconut water helped lower blood pressure as seen on this page at the National Center for ...

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Hormone therapy and blood pressure.

Q: I am 72yrs, I do not take hormone therapy any more after i suffered a mild heart attack where I have a stent put in. I have had a lot of facial hair growth. Should I go back on hormone therapy at my age?

A:...

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Massages and blood pressure.

Q: Is it safe to get a massage when BP averages 130/82?

A: Massage is felt to be a safe procedure when performed by a trained professional. Blood pressure does not have to be normal to get a massage. To learn more about the different types...

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Blood pressure spikes, with otherwise normal blood pressure.

Q: My blood pressure is normal to low during the day. About once or twice a month, it goes up to 197/102. I’ve have all kinds of tests. My heart is good; hormones good; doctors can’t treat because if they give me medication when my...

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Swelling due to Losartan.

Q: I am a type 1 diabetic and my physician prescribed Losartan for blood pressure control. My calves, ankles and feet are constantly swollen, which restricts my exercise regimen. My physician has not offered a “solution.” What, if anything, can I do to alleviate the...

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Lowering blood pressure through changes in lifestyle

Q: What are some lifestyle changes that lower pressure?

A: Having a regular exercise program, eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, and maintaining a normal weight are key parts of a healthy life style. They will help keep blood pressure in control. Sometimes...

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Finding out if kidneys are causing high blood pressure.

Q: As the kidneys help control blood pressure what medical checks would you suggest to find out if there is a kidney problem.

A: Prior to starting treatment for high blood pressure, it is considered standard of care to get some simple tests that look at...

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Cause of a jump in blood pressure.

Q: What would be the cause for BP that jumps sometimes? I have a decent BP of 120/80 plus minus a bit, but sometimes it can jump to 140 and then shortly/minutes after it’s down in the 120s

A: Blood pressure changes all the time depending...

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Food allergies and hypertension.

Q: Can food allergies make your bp go up?

A: With a true severe allergic reaction to a food, the concern is more about low blood pressure and shock. With lesser reactions blood pressure may be temporarily elevated. To learn more about food allergies go to...

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Slowing your fast pulse.

Q: How do I slow my fast pulse? I eat healthy & exercise. I also suffer from daily dizzy spells. Do you think it’s the fast pulse?

A: Pulse is related to activity level. With less activity, your pulse should be slower. Resting pulse is usually...

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