Blood Pressure Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Note: We recommend you use this page as a reference for your consultation with your doctor.

--- The MedicineNet Medical Editors

1. What is a desirable blood pressure reading for me?

2. What can be causing my high blood pressure?

3. What can I do to lower my high blood pressure?

4. How frequently should I have my blood pressure checked?

5. Can my blood pressure get too low?

6. What over-the-counter medications should I avoid?

7. What is the long-term safety of the blood pressure medication(s) you have prescribed for me?

8. What are the medication side effects?

9. If side effects occur, what should I do on my own? When should I contact you?

10. Can the other medications I am on adversely interact with the blood pressure medications you are prescribing for me?

MedicineNet Reminder: Establishing an accurate diagnosis is key to proper treatments. You are the most important person in this process by accurately describing to your doctor the character, location, duration, and time of onset of your symptoms. You should also inform your doctor about vitamins, herbs, and medications you are taking. For example, long-term use of certain vitamins and non-prescription medications may be the cause of your abnormal liver tests; magnesium-containing antacids and supplements may be causing your diarrhea; certain blood pressure pills can be the reason for your constipation.