Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Support Group

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a progressive, genetic disorder of the kidneys. It occurs in humans and other organisms. PKD is characterised by the presence of multiple cysts (polycystic) in both kidneys. The disease can also damage the liver, pancreas and rarely the heart and brain.

431 Members
2,164 Posts
0 Online
Kidneys & Bladder
/ Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Support Group

hypertension control

eswann
eswann
My nephrologist has recommended that I start Micardis along with verapamil. He told me that it may cause my creatinine and potassium to increase. I have not started the Micardis because of my concern about increasing my creatinine. Has anyone had experience with this medication?
.
deleted_user
deleted_user
how has your bp been lately? what meds are you now taking?
verapamil seems to have fewer warnings but I just did a quick search on each.
have you been doing all you can to control your blood pressure already? low sodium, plenty of water, exercise? is your potassium elevated? are you retaining fluids? are your other labs in balance?
Micardis is a diuretic which will increase your urine output (is this a problem?) but there are other diuretics such as lasix which will lower potassium as well.
give us some more info so we can offer more help.
CHeatherS
CHeatherS
Yes, I agree with what Spiderwoman says. I also have a medication for a BP medication, but I work very carefully with my diet and other things in order to not take it. I take my bp at home every day to see how it is. Often, when I go to the doctor, it is elevated. They call that "white coat syndrome". I kept a log of my bp for the doctor. We work together as a team.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Generally, with elevated blood pressure, PKD patients need to limit salt intake as salt is high in sodium. Damaged kidneys become incapable in discharging excess sodium which may pile up and cause high pressure in blood. Alos, high sodium level in blood can cause leakage of fluid among space of tissues, leading to swelling or edema. In clinic, different antihypertensive medicines like ACEI, ARBs (Angiotensin II receptor blockers), calcium channel blokers, and diuretics and so on. Wih different illness condition and causes of high blood pressure, PKD paients need to ake different medicines, so it is great for patients to consult their doctors in advance before tehy make any decision.