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How Can I Get Back To My Normal,energetic Self When Having Low BP And Constant Reflux?

Posted on Tue, 14 Jan 2014

Question: After having angina like pain, had a cardiac XXXXXXX and a nuclear stress test. Found to have a myocardial bridge but told that it did not present problem also no blockages found. Put on Toporol and Lipitor supposedly as a precaution. Since starting these meds my blood pressure(whic was normal before) now runs 78 to 80 over 40 to 50. Also gained 32 pounds in 9 months. I stay exhausted and have constant reflux. Cardiologist seems unconcerned. As an active person, this has significantly affected my life. 62 and now 170+ lbs. how can I get back to my normal, energetic self? BTW, have had significant depression since all this started. On Wellbutrin.

Answered by Dr. Anshul Varshney (37 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Continue Lipitor. Toporol requires dose modificati Detailed Answer: Dear Mam , Thanks for sharing your problem with us. At this age and with even little evidence of coronary artery disease , or even risk factors , Lipitor (Atorvastatin) is a good choice as it is known to have pleiomorphic effects like 1.Reduces cholestrol 2.Anti inflammatory effects 3.Clot Stabilization 4.Immuno-modulatory effects. So i advice you to continue atorvastatin. But Blood pressure of 80/50 mmHg is not acceptable. It is due to Toporol (Metoprolol). I guess you getting inappropriate dosage. Metoprolol is good foe heart as it prevents cardiac remodelling. But it's dose has to be decided based on your blood pressure and heart rate. Low blood pressure , might be the reason for early exhaustion. Consult your doctor for dose adjustment immediately. Once you get back to normal blood pressure , you will start feeling better. Still if you feel depressive , you should consult back your Psychiatrist. I advice you not to take metoprolol further , till your doctor adjusts the doses. For reflux problems , i prefer to use Pantoprazole and domperidone combination daily. If you are taking Aspirin also , it can cause gastric upset and refluxes , so this would also help. I hope i am able to solve your query , still if you have any query , you may ask me. Stay Healthy.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Anshul Varshney (17 minutes later)

Thanks. That is what i suspected. Does the Toporol also account for the sigificant weight gain? I know it slows metabolism but this seems extreme. Regardless of activty level my weight conitues to increase. Forgot to mention that since beginning these meds I am having vivid dreams which are often disturbing. The Toporol is 25 mg once daily.

Answered by Dr. Anshul Varshney (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer: I attribute these problems more due to depression Detailed Answer: Dear Mam Metoprolol can cause weight gain , but not as significantly as you are describing. I attribute it more to your depression problem. Same is with vivid dreams. I advice you for regular excersies and weight loss , it is important in Heart Patients. Regular exercises helps you to keep your heart healthy , cut down your cholestrol , and also gives you a good feel. If you don't have any further query , you may please close the discussion and rate it.

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj