Just want to make sure you see this, but you need to know your BP. I'm your age, have similar H/W stats, and elevated BP has always been an issue for me. Even without the huge amount of sodium from soy sauce, your stats put you at a high risk for it (which in turn leads to higher risk for heart attack and stroke.)
Ask your doctor at your next physical, or if you don't see a doctor regularly, you can buy yourself a good one off of Amazon. I have this one and vouch for it, but there's another one from the same manufacturer $15 cheaper.
No need to wait. The devices are cheap. I use this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WCQVV71/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Costs about the same as a typical copay, but you can check as often as you want. When you get the feelings you're describing you can check right then and there, and know for sure if you're BP is elevated from normal.
My BP has been slightly high every time I go to the doctors, but when I have the nurses at work it's been fine. My doctor put me on high alert for Pre-E symptoms. Nothing so far, but either way, it freaks me out. I bought my own BP monitor from Amazon and it is amazing. It even has a 2 person setting so I can keep track of my husbands too. It saves the last 100 readings and keeps me sane. If any of you are in the same boat, this is the one I bought.
I haven't seen my doctor either, but he did tell me to get a BP monitor and keep checking myself. I bought one on amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/OMRON-Pressure-Monitor-Digital-Readings/dp/B07S2H3XB9
I know it's an extra expense but I feel like if I can't see a doctor in person, it was worth it for me to buy for piece of mind
This one lasts me about 4 to 5 years .. works great . Make sure your arm is level with the bottom of your heart. I also got a wall adapter to save on batteries.
If you don't want to shell out $100 I Just got this https://www.amazon.com/Konquest-KBP-2704A-Automatic-Pressure-Monitor/dp/B077CXGSJW has 24k ratings almost 5 stars. I think it is the best selling BP on Amazon.
Sorry you are in a situation where you need to buy one, but I hope whatever you get can help you to manage your bp. Good luck and take care.
Konquest KBP-2704A Automatic... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077CXGSJW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I have this one & it has good reviews, seems accurate. It does squeeze the absolute bejeezus out of my arm if I don’t get it on just right, but I feel like that’s the nature of the beast. My nurses sometimes do that too lol
I got this one but haven’t received it yet. LifeSource by A&D Medical Upper... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VXO4JE?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
But I might try the advice from another comment and learn to do it manually if this one doesn’t work.
I used the Omron 3 during my most recent pregnancy. While it does not have an app feature, its inexpensive & does have the capability of storing multiple readings
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S2H3XB9/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_SAC5YHQ92HMD2NJ2E2K0
Withings! Amazon link It’s an investment but recommended to me by a nurse friend and tracks in an app (so you don’t have to write it down every time).
Amazon has this device that might help. https://www.amazon.com/Withings-BPM-Connect-Pressure-Monitor/dp/B07SJV1HNR?th=1
I see that it works on Wi-Fi, but I don't know if the phone and the device have to be on the same Wi-Fi network, or if it would update to your phone across the Internet.
Also, for a family intercom in different homes, check out Amazon's echo dot. Put one in each home and it could be a voice activated intercom. Yesterday I also posted about an inexpensive emergency button system. The operator could call you or call 911 as needed. https://old.reddit.com/r/AgingParents/comments/uylw2k/emergency_push_button_alert_with_fall_detection/
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Medical-UA-611-Upper-Pressure-Monitor/dp/B00JQ7SZLO/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=3VPDKVXUURVBR&keywords=blood+pressure+machine&qid=1653142159&sprefix=blood%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-4 this one. Get it ordered to an Amazon drop box. Works fine, just make sure you do the cuff tight and do 2-3 readings, taking the average.
Problem is most of the information is bullshit. The drug itself isn't that bad. People take desoxyn for decades and continue being normal and healthy. ...It's the not eating and sleeping that gets you. If you're able to keep that in check then you're fine.
That said, all stims are vasoconstrictors and it sounds like you may have either a cardiovascular or diabetic problem to content with. You should absolutely take a break, say 3 weeks, and see a doc. At the very least grab a blood pressure monitor and start checking regularly. especially comparing peak high to base values.
I've had the "OMRON Evolv Bluetooth Wireless Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor with Portable, One-piece Design – Works with Alexa" for 2 years and I love it. The Omron app you get on your Smartphone really gives you all the data history you need along with some nice charts to display the data. It automatically downloads to the app with Bluetooth when you take a blood pressure reading. The app allows you to send the data in excel, pdf, or CSV formats to your computer several ways including email.
This is the one I bought just a few weeks ago. It has worked really well well. Seems to be accurate, easy to use, and easy to synch the readings with my phone. Definitely recommend.
OMRON Silver Blood Pressure Monitor, Upper Arm Cuff, Digital Bluetooth Blood Pressure Machine, Stores Up To 80 Readings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RYBKNC2/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_QD2FVBK9WRKSNTCD57QQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have very large upper arms, so I purchased this one. It's a little pricey, but it works really well and was the only one that came with the larger style cuff. The cuff includes markings on it so you know you're using the correct size.
High blood pressure is called a silent killer for the very reason it has no symptoms, yet long term high blood pressure increases your risk of a major cardiac event (heart attack, stroke, death etc).
Now this doesn't mean you have high blood pressure, but most certainly feeling fine doesnt mean everything is fine, again it's a silent killer.
I'd order a blood pressure cuff on Amazon like this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WCQVV71/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_TJ3MX4RTPC2NSWM1JZNH
See what kind of readings you are getting at home when completely relaxed. If you are regularly getting readings of 140+, medication is recommended to lower your risk of developing heart disease.
ALL NEW 2021 LAZLE Blood Pressure Monitor - Automatic Upper Arm Machine & Accurate Adjustable Digital BP Cuff Kit - Largest Backlit Display - 200 Sets Memory, Includes Batteries, Carrying Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WCQVV71/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_EN3X6KCQJK678WTGPF0M
Everyone go to their product and write negative reviews! We can fuck them up for threatening a fellow redditor
use this. How much weight have you gained? Is this a new weight category for you? It'll definitely cause shortness of breath, not necessarily gear related. Are you getting your LISS in?
I can get this to you by tomorrow. Would it help? Do you want it? If so, feel free to DM me your address.
Konquest KBP-2704A Automatic Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor - Adjustable Cuff - Large Backlit Display - Irregular Heartbeat & Hypertension Detector - Tensiometro Digital https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077CXGSJW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_VHYGMXTCFBDX7CWNBAJG
Great news! Best of luck to you!
Don’t be afraid to request and take a short cycle of benzodiazepines to get you through the discomfort. I’m definitely not saying that you won’t have withdrawal symptoms. Plan for 2-3 days of sleep and discomfort. Take a couple days off work. Plan for a 4 day weekend. Get a good blood pressure monitor and check yourself frequently (just about all they do at a detox center (check my blood pressure hourly, temperature, brought me food/fluids/vitamins/medication).
I have this one:
OMRON Bronze Blood Pressure Monitor, Upper Arm Cuff, Digital Blood Pressure Machine, Stores Up To 14 Readings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S2H3XB9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_JFAR04WKHP7NJ4K1ARZ5 Works great.
I just don’t personally think you will have the DT’s or need to go to a detox center.
Continued care, AA, abstinence are important though.
This is all just based on my personal experiences. I’m not a Dr.
Best of luck to you and let us know how it goes!
Also, I have bought BP monitor and checking at home everyday. When my day gets absolutely crazy It goes till 150/98 other times it has been 130/90 - average one week. I got This one: LAZLE Blood Pressure Monitor - Automatic Upper Arm Machine & Accurate Adjustable Digital BP Cuff Kit - Largest Backlit Display - 200 Sets Memory, Includes Batteries, Carrying Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WCQVV71/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_fabc_DKNE6GZMESAY582NK1Z9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Got a fantastic blood pressure cuff from Amazon. I needed to upgrade from my shitty wrist cuff. BP is steadily 120/70 and I’m at 215 not using any cialis. That’s major for me. Very exciting as I’m preparing to go into my next blast and finally try to get to 230 and stay there.
Fyi Omron support got back to me and they only make XL cuffs for their professional monitors. I ended up getting this Lifesource model on Amazon. Seems reputable, but runs a little pricey at $135. Sold at major retailers too.
A little bit late but I read a review on Amazon and he said the Omron Evolv can connect directly to the S Health app without Omron connect. Is it true and available with Apple Health? Thanks.
Do you use a wrist or a upper arm monitor? I ask bc I always had problems with my wrist monitor and my doctor said to use the upper arm. Especially bc it's supposed to be aligned with your heart, which is easier to do on you upper arm if you're doing it lying down or standing.
If you decide it's faulty, I recommend this one: Omron Silver It's a bit pricey (around $50) but was recommended by my cardiologist and has been very accurate and reliable. Also sends all your readings to an app and you can email a report to your doctor, which is nice.
I used to have very low BP, now thanks to my CGRP migraine meds, I have a slightly high BP, and either way, it's always given me an accurate reading.
High blood pressure typically has no symptoms. That's why they call it "the silent killer." Still, it's probably a good idea to have an at home blood pressure cuff to monitor yourself, that way you can understand your baselines and will be able to know if changes to medication or diet/lifestyle are having an effect.
I use this cuff and it's accurate and stores your results or sends them to an app. The same brand makes more affordable options too. Just don't get a wrist BP cuff, they're not very accurate. I do it reclining most mornings before breakfast and then do it lying, then sitting, then standing once a week.
I had that same wrist cuff and it was crazy inaccurate. It started off okay but within a few weeks it was going from high to low and also giving me weirdly low readings. I got an upper arm monitor (Omron Silver) and it is much more consistent. When I took them both to my next doctor's appointment, the upper arm monitor was almost exactly what the Dr's cuff read and the wrist was waaayyy off. My doc also said to wait one minute between readings. Also, don't move your arm, or the other arm aside from to push the start button, during the reading. Having your dog squish you can alter your BP (I have experience with dog squishing, practically an expert, lol.). Even the pressure from a full bladder can increase your BP a significant amount (like 15/10 higher).
I don't know if your EDS is hEDS or not, but I have hypermobility and sometimes when my chest hurts, it's actually my rib cartilage getting mad about something (again with the dog squishing...) it's called costochondritis. Sometimes it's also GERD from the amount of eating salt and lying down I do, and I just need a handful of tums. So I'm not saying that you shouldn't worry about chest pain, obviously if you think your heart is in serious distress, go to the ER, but just know that there can be less scary causes.
You’re welcome! Here’s a link to the one I bought, forgot to link it before:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00JQ7SZLO/
Regarding my GP, I think I’m lucky that I have a really lovely lady as my doctor. I made an appointment with her before the March lockdown and basically explained that I’m trans, that I fully intended to transition and that I’d already decided on going via the private route due to the extremely long NHS times. I’m not sure if she’s had other trans patients, but I live in Greater London and so GPs here might be more used to dealing with people like us.
I think what helped is that I showed her all the details of Dr Dundas and Dr Coxon from the GenderCare website, so she was able to see their credentials etc. She said she’d be fine with shared care, but would obviously need to check the prescriptions before approving them herself.
I hope it goes just as smoothly for you! ☺️
I've had the evolve for a few months now: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MRL790Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It's ifor the US market and not listed as any of those model numbers you mentioned although it looks to be the same thing.
I bought one from Amazon that was the wrist type- no good. This one will cut off circulation a bit but you get an accurate read. https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07RYBKNC2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2wVqFbDF89TDR
Wrist cuffs are typically less accurate than upper arm cuffs because it is measuring a smaller artery. I'd recommend getting a reliable home BP monitor, like this one, so you can measure your BP without the doctor's office anxiety. It really gave me peace of mind!
> it's often high and they both suspect I have white coat syndrome
I have the same problem. My doc had me buy an Omron blood pressure cuff with Bluetooth. I keep it right behind the couch where I can grab it as I'm chillin out, and I monitor at least once per day. Several times per day if I'm around the house after a new medication change. Then I sync it with the phone app and I can show my doc my whole BP history.
Does it need to be anything fancy? Or is this one fine?
Maybe your blood pressure is low, this is a known side effect from minoxidil use. To make sure your blood pressure is below average you should buy one of these https://www.amazon.com/Omron-BP742N-Pressure-Monitor-Standard/dp/B00KPQB2NS/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_121_bs_t_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=15CQBRYKSXKCMEEZSTRQ
My BP has been high at doctors appointments, and I've learned it is just me being there. My OB did tell me to take a baby Aspirin every day as a precaution since it is not super high. I did purchase my own BP monitor from Amazon this one and it saves the last 100 readings. I have never had protein in my urine but they do have it on my chart to monitor this and my BP closely.
This is the machine I have. Any recommendations for a better machine? My doc said mine was accurate except for the bottom number. She told me only pay attention to the top number when doing readings. Just curious if anyone else has run into the same issue with bp readings?
Any of the omron series. As recommended by John Meadows in a podcast appearance.
Depends on your age?
You can effectively screen yourself quite cheap.
Buy a blood pressure monitor - A&D UA-611 Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00JQ7SZLO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9JXQzbHGQE1W0
Scales to work out your bmi and Google thrivia to get blood and cholesterol tests . Shoot me a pm of you want a money off code.
All the above will give a good idea of where your health is.
If it's good then save your premiums instead of buying a policy. Seeing a consultant privately is cheap, even MRI is cheap, anything major won't be but if it's serious tje NHS will cover it and fast track you anyway.
Anyone here used a electronic BP cuff and can verify its accuracy? I was looking at this one on amazon and thinking of buying it in conjuction with a manual one also.
This is the one I use. It works well. I use it with the "My BP comapnion" iPhone app. It works well for showing youre history, averages, and charts out youre readings so you can see changes.
It also says "#1 Dr and Pharmacist recommended home blood pressure machine" for Omron. If thats wor
I'm looking at their different model line on Amazon right now. Seems like as you go up into the higher end models, the differences include more memory, wireless/bluetooth sotrage, a/c adapter included and a different cuff type.
The 3 and 5 series have a "Wide range D-ring" cuff type (quick google sounds like its easier to use by yourself, which is ideal for me). While the 7 and 10 series use an "easy wrap ComFit" (seems like its a more traditional cuff the nurses use that you'd need 2 hands to apply properly?)
The price difference between the 5 and 7 series is ~$6 so its not really an issue. I'm just wondering which cuff will be the easiest to work for me doing it solo
thanks for the reply
Thanks a lot for your answer. Side question.
I've purchased this blood pressure meter and the results it's giving me vary a lot from reading to reading. Is that normal? (i've gotten a range like: 142-121 & 69-75)
Get a blood pressure monitor, like this (http://www.amazon.com/Omron-BP742N-Upper-Pressure-Monitor/dp/B00KPQB2NS/ref=sr_1_4/189-4956941-8393361?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1427432283&sr=1-4).
I used to have the same symptoms and beyond only weighting 210 lbs, almost the same physical work and high streess (but in México).
Checked for my blood pressure and after one week of two times a day measuring, kidney ultrasound and heart ecograph, the doctor Dx as "high blood pressure", give me a daily pill Rx (Olmesartan ).
I have now two months without symptoms, my daily life is much better, no headaches, no wear out feeling after hard work day, not exausted, my sleep hours and quality have improved.
(english if not my first language, in case you fail to notice)