Importance of Continuing Blood Pressure Medications
In India, many individuals still hold the misconception that stopping blood pressure medication is safe once their readings normalize. Dr. Parin Sangoi, a renowned interventional cardiologist from Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai, strongly emphasizes that this belief can have dire consequences for health. He explains that untreated high blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney disease, which often goes unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred.
Dr. Sangoi highlights that kidney damage can begin much earlier than most people realize. By the time individuals discover they have high blood pressure, they may already have experienced some level of kidney impairment. This misunderstanding leads many patients to mistakenly attribute their kidney issues to the medications, rather than acknowledging the long-term effects of untreated hypertension.
Normal blood pressure readings are often a sign that the treatment is effective, not a reason to stop taking medication. Dr. Sangoi points out that high blood pressure is typically a lifelong condition. Abruptly ceasing medication can result in dangerous spikes in blood pressure, which can occur without any warning symptoms. Such fluctuations put additional stress on vital organs like the heart, brain, and kidneys, significantly increasing the risk of severe health events, including heart attacks and strokes.
Patients frequently make the critical mistake of stopping their medication on their own, often swayed by advice from social media or friends. This decision can lead to uncontrolled blood pressure and accelerate organ damage. Therefore, any changes to medication should always be supervised by a healthcare professional.
While adopting healthy habits such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can enhance blood pressure control, these lifestyle changes should not replace prescribed medications without a doctor's consultation. Dr. Sangoi reassures that with sustained lifestyle improvements, some patients might be able to lower their medication dosage, but completely stopping treatment requires careful medical oversight.
Blood pressure medications are designed to protect essential organs over time. They help prevent long-term complications rather than cause them. Decisions regarding medication changes or cessation should always be guided by medical expertise, rather than myths or unfounded fears.
