I'm a 22-year-old male in the armed forces, and about two and a half years ago I was diagnosed with high blood pressure (around 180/110) pretty much out of the blue; I had had healthy readings up to four days prior to the first high reading. Since diagnosis, I've been run through a gauntlet of tests which show I have no apparent reason for high blood pressure (beyond heredity, that is). I'm also currently on my sixth medication. (Maxzide...previously it was Hydrochlorothiazide, Lisinopril, HCT again, Atenolol, Clonodine Patches, Verapamil, Atenolol again, then the Maxzide)
The problem is that I felt fine before I was placed on medication, but I've since experienced shortness of breath and often extreme dizziness when I exert myself too much. It manifests the most when I'm engaged in any prolonged cardio activity (like running or swimming), and when I begin to reach my limit in any muscular activity (like push-ups). The medical professionals at the local clinic (and even at Walter Reed) have been less than helpful. Their overall consensus is that my symptoms aren't typical, and therefore aren't an issue. Since I'm lower enlisted, I don't have the option of simply not exerting myself to the degree that causes the problems...I have to be able to pass a PT test, which involves running as fast as I possibly can for two miles-- something I can't do within the minimum time limit of 16:30. I've been bounced around on this issue for years and it seems like I've been backed into a corner. I've tried stopping my medication, but now it causes headaches and sometimes severe nosebleeds.
If anyone can offer any insight or advice at all, it would be highly appreciated...I really need a non-military opinion on my situation.
EDIT: Also, I don't smoke or drink...I've never done either. Just thought I'd add that since it seems to be the first thing the doctors always ask.
The problem is that I felt fine before I was placed on medication, but I've since experienced shortness of breath and often extreme dizziness when I exert myself too much. It manifests the most when I'm engaged in any prolonged cardio activity (like running or swimming), and when I begin to reach my limit in any muscular activity (like push-ups). The medical professionals at the local clinic (and even at Walter Reed) have been less than helpful. Their overall consensus is that my symptoms aren't typical, and therefore aren't an issue. Since I'm lower enlisted, I don't have the option of simply not exerting myself to the degree that causes the problems...I have to be able to pass a PT test, which involves running as fast as I possibly can for two miles-- something I can't do within the minimum time limit of 16:30. I've been bounced around on this issue for years and it seems like I've been backed into a corner. I've tried stopping my medication, but now it causes headaches and sometimes severe nosebleeds.
If anyone can offer any insight or advice at all, it would be highly appreciated...I really need a non-military opinion on my situation.
EDIT: Also, I don't smoke or drink...I've never done either. Just thought I'd add that since it seems to be the first thing the doctors always ask.
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Have you considered trying some hands-on healing that does not involve drugs? I know there are specifics CONDITIONS causing your SYPTOMS. Are you in Forida?
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No, I'm not in Florida...I'm in the US, but I'm really not comfortable being more detailed than that. My schedule is very constrictive, and I have the added hurdle of needing the military to sign off on anything I do. We're not even supposed to see outside doctors unless there's an iminent threat to life, limb, or senses.
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I understand....what a shame that you can't get help for something obviously disrupting your body from working at 100%. I admire your dedication to keeping our country safe and appreciate what you do. Best of luck to you.
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