Took my BP readings in yesterday from the week. Wasn't expecting it but they did take me back to another doc in the practice (mine wasn't in due to an emergency) to follow up given what is going on and to touch base. She took a history, BP reading again, which was still bad, and did an EKG, which was good at the time and a relief at least for the moment.

They did start me on a med, Lisinopril (Zestril); I think it has another brand name too, I cannot remember what it is. Anyone taking this?

I have a follow up appt with my doc in two weeks because he is on vacation next. This doc wanted me to see mine this week so I have to call back today to see what can be done. I did some reading overnight about the med; I also have to call today because I want to get some baseline lab tests done. It indicates it affects renal function and potassium levels, these should be monitored over time. I was not thrilled with the choice of meds and the side effects, let alone that 2 of the four she would recommended I cannot take to interactions with my other meds, of course, wouldn't that just be the case. It actually caused me to tear up adding another med; I feel like a walking pharmacy. Hopefully this will work out though ok and if it helps that is all that matters is what I will keep telling myself. Meanwhile if I could just get rid of this splitting headache that woke me. Hopefully it is not a sign of things to come with this med and just coincidence.

Thanks for the support meanwhile, RRex. Meant a lot. Have been worried with the family history of BP and my Dad having had a stroke recently; I don't know how much of this is the stress I am under with the new job and home stressors, vs genetics or both. Talking it out helped and appreciated the advice. I hope you are able to get your BP controlled soon, both of us for that matter. Hang in there meanwhile and take good care.