Different Doc’s opinions

[urbanx]

Different Doc’s opinions.

]I had a 24hr Blood Pressure Test recently. In the day I averaged 160/93, peaking at 220/110. It went down to normal-ish levels when I slept. To me 160/93 is high for an average weight, otherwise healthy 26 Year old is high. My Doc disagrees.

So I went for a second opinion, and got put straight on Propranolol (2x40mg per day). My Doctor actually phoned me up this morning, asking if this was true, and if I could go in and see him asap. (I’m going later today)

I’m now worried that I’ve been given these by mistake, and maybe I shouldn’t have gone for a second opinion?

I’m really freaking out about this, so any advice or opinions would be welcome.

[faith]

Doctors can be very difficult to deal with. Talk to both Doctors and then see what you think about it all,there is no rush.

[urbanx]

Cheers Faith. I'm just really frustrated that Dr. A believes I need no treatment at all. everything I read says that anything over 140/90 needs to be addressed!

Argh, it makes my blood boil!

[valleybear]

High blood pressure in younger people is difficult to diagnose and although there are BMA guidelines for the Drs they may have interpreted your 24 hour readings differently. The main thing is that you can discuss this further with the Drs involved and you will get an explanation. There is no harm done and you will get treated in an appropriate way, I'm sure. Just a nuisance and frustration, I know 'cos myself and family have had all the BP probs under the sun and it sometimes takes time to get things sorted out. You are young and fit...so try not to stress and good luck at the Drs.

[urbanx]

Thanks mmac43! I'll let everyone know the outcome of me being called back tomorrow!

[nanny]

I shouldn't worry too much about taking these meds, I am on 180 mg per day for high blood pressure, but in the past had the same dose for stress related probs/anxiety etc.

Your doc will put you on the straight and narrow and put your mind at rest also, so do try not to worry.

[Oceanblue]

All doctors have their own individual opinions when diagnosing, some agree and some disagree and can then name a different diagnosis altogether, i've had this happen afew times.

There's nothing wrong with asking for a second opinion, infact if you were worried then it was the best thing for you to do. As you knew that the 1st doc's advice was safe and clear but then the 2nd doc advised you to take the medication, you could have discussed this with them.

I've found that it's been best to find a doctor that I have faith in, that I can talk to when needed about anything and also feel comfortable with. It's taken alittle time, but i'm happy and trust this one doctors opinions and advice.

I wouldn't worry so much about the medication you've been given, whether you've started taking it or not, as the doctor that has called you back seems very efficient and caring and i'm sure he/she will give you the right advice in what you should do.

Hmmm,... just read that back.. sorry it's a bit jumbled lol.

xx

[urbanx]

Right so I got a phone call from my original doctor yesterday, asking me to come and see him immediately. I feared this would be a major reprisal as I dared to go and get a second opinion.
Turns out he called me in to apologise. He’d completely mis-read my results. On the cover sheet of my 24hour blood test it says “Upper Daytime limit 140/90” This is the guideline that you should not exceed. However he took this to mean that that was MY highest reading, and hence refused to treat me. One he turned the page and actually looked at the results he could see my pressure varied from 160/95 to 220/110, too high.

Upshot is: keep taking the Propranolol, and he’s referring me to a cardio-specialist.

Result – I think!

While I admire his honesty and transparency, it is a bit worrying.

[valleybear]

Glad you got it sorted.. I am having a BP panic today as I tried a home moniter for the first time and expected it to be lower than the surgery readings which are usually about 138/80...horror of horrors it was up at 144/86, so I freaked out and tried again and the anxiety pushed it up further!! Now binning the moniter and have made an appointment at the clinic for my usual check.. I take Micardis and a diuretic so I always expect it to be better than it is and finish up with a weeks panic!