Health

I've had it at least since my teens. Was first treated when I went to the Dr. for headaches and my BP was 170 over something. That was in 1995. Have been on medications for years with nothing really getting it controlled. Doctor after doctor have recommended a lower sodium diet. I've been preparing most of my own food for years. It's not a sodium issue. It runs in the family. As of the beginning of 2025 I was on five meds. Over the years I've had this pill switched out for that. Some have unwanted side effects.

Have recently switched to care under a cardiologist who prescribed Spironolactone (a aldosterone antagonist) which I started in July. Took my BP a few minutes ago. it was 123/70 and that's on the high side of most of my current readings. I've already convinced the doc to eliminate one of the meds with side effects from my regimen and I'll continue to request reductions. As it is, I'm still on 5 meds.

An aldosterone antagonist may not be the trick for everyone and I'm cautious since many meds have looked favorable for a short time before numbers creep back up, but this is the most consistent success I've had in 30 years of treatment.

I was actually referred to this cardiologist to look into renal denervation, a procedure that reduces some nerve activity in the kidneys. It has led to success in many patients, but Anthem, my insurance denied coverage claiming the procedure is "investigational." No shock there. I can appeal it at a higher level, but in the meantime, the success of the Spironolactone is a bright spot.