alpha adrenergic blocker

Question

I been on alpha adrenergic blockers for a few months now because my doctor said I had high blood pressure that wasn't responding well to other meds. At first, it was fine, but lately I feel like my body is just acting weird. My hands and feet get super cold all the time, like even when the weather is warm. And my energy is just gone - I used to go for morning walks, but now I feel like I’m dragging myself outta bed. Not to mention my head feels foggy all day, like I can't focus on anything properly. My heart rate also seems slower than before, which I guess is normal with these meds, but it still feels kinda off.

Another weird thing – I’ve been having random episodes of dizziness, especially when I stand up quickly. It's like my vision blacks out for a second, and I have to hold onto something to keep from falling. I told my doctor, but they just adjusted my dose a little and said it should be fine. But honestly, I don’t feel fine at all. The worst part? My digestion is all messed up too, I feel bloated and constipated all the time, which never used to be a problem for me. I read somewhere that alpha adrenergic blockers can affect digestion and metabolism, but my doctor didn’t really address that part.

Now I’m wondering if there’s another way to manage my BP without these side effects? I’ve read that Ayurveda has natural ways to balance blood pressure without causing so many issues. Are there Ayurvedic treatments or herbs that can help people who’ve been on alpha adrenergic blockers for a while and want to switch to something natural? How does Ayurveda deal with blood pressure regulation, and is it possible to stop these meds safely while transitioning to an herbal approach? I also heard some Ayurvedic therapies can help improve circulation and reduce dizziness – is that true? And what about the digestive issues, can Ayurveda help with that too?

Not sure if stopping alpha adrenergic blockers suddenly is safe or if there’s a way to slowly taper off while taking Ayurvedic remedies? I don’t wanna mess up my health, but I also don’t wanna keep feeling like a zombie every day. Any advice would be really helpful.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Accepted Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns, and it's clear that you're experiencing discomfort that significantly impacts your daily life. Given that you've been taking alpha-adrenergic blockers and now facing side effects such as cold extremities, fatigue, foggy mind, dizziness, and digestive issues, there is a need to approach your situation carefully. In Ayurveda, blood pressure management involves balancing the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, which might be aggravated given your symptoms.

First, regarding your cold hands and feet, this is indicative of poor circulation, possibly a Vata imbalance. To help improve circulation, you can incorporate warming herbs such as ginger and cinnamon into your daily tea. Ensure your meals are warm and nourishing. Regular, gentle massages with sesame oil can enhance blood flow.

For your energy levels and mental clarity, try incorporating Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and Ashwagandha. Brahmi can enhance cognitive function, while Ashwagandha is known for its rejuvenating properties that can help with fatigue. You can take 300 mg of Brahmi and 500 mg of Ashwagandha twice daily after meals.

To address your digestive issues, consider taking Triphala, which is a combination of three fruits and helps regulate digestion, promoting regular bowel movements without causing cramping. Start with half a teaspoon in warm water before bedtime. Eating light, easy-to-digest foods like khichdi made from basmati rice and mung beans can also support your digestion.

As you think about transitioning off your medication, it is crucial to do this under your doctor's supervision, as sudden withdrawal can lead to complications. You can plan to taper off the medication gradually while starting with Ayurvedic herbs, but discuss this step with your healthcare provider.

For dizziness, be cautious when standing quickly; practice gentle yoga poses like Tadasana to improve balance and stability. Regular deep breathing exercises can also help alleviate dizziness.

Finally, it is essential to listen to your body and avoid sticking to a strict regimen if it doesn't feel right. Combine these practices with your medical care, and consider working with a local Ayurvedic practitioner to create a tailored plan that takes into account your specific health conditions and needs.

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