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Blood Pressure Meds and Running

1,061 Views | 5 Replies | Last: 4 yr ago by aznaggiegirl07
Stive
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10-15 lbs over my average weight over the last decade.
44 years old
Now taking 5mg of Amlodopine and 25 mg of Olmesartan Medoxomil

Started taking BP medicine 2 years ago despite being in good shape with no other underlying health issues (mother has had high BP since her late 30's and is still in great shape, her father was the same). I used to only take the Amlodopine but at a higher dose. In early July the doctor pulled back on the Amlodopine and added the Olmesartan.

I'm what I would consider a part time runner. I consistently run 20'ish miles a week during the cooler months but much less during the summer (3-5 miles per week). This summer I've been particularly sluggish and lazy, thus the gained weight mentioned above.

After some time off I've always been able to jump right back in and run at least 2 miles if not 3 depending on time of day I was running, then work up to 5-6 after 3/4 weeks. Twice this week I've taken off on a slow run and before I get to 1 mile, my lower legs are dying. And to such a point that I can barely finish 2 miles alternately walking/running every 60 seconds or so.

Before I just start trying to push through for the next few weeks, and attribute it to being older, slower, and fatter, how do the BP meds I mentioned work? Do they constrict blood flow or cause any other issues that might be affecting my legs? Anyone else had to change an exercise routine or the type of exercise they prefer due to a medication?


wcb
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Any chance you have access to an indoor treadmill? I'd start there and compare. I've felt incredibly sluggish in this summer heat.
Stive
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wcb said:

Any chance you have access to an indoor treadmill? I'd start there and compare. I've felt incredibly sluggish in this summer heat.

Not a bad idea. Wife has an elliptical that might be able to at least rule out heat.

MaxPower
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What do you mean by "dying"? Fatigued or cramping? If fatigued I wouldn't be surprised if the muscles are just getting used to a change in routine (always difficult as you get older). If cramping then the meds seem like a more likely potential cause as some blood pressure meds can lead to dehydration. I'd recommend drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.

FYI I'm not a doctor so would recommend discussing with your physician.
Stive
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Extreme fatigue, no cramping.

In the past, when I have taken breaks for a few weeks or months, it might take me a few weeks to get my breathing back in order, I'd be sore for a few days at a time, etc. But I never had an issue with "dead legs" a couple hundred meters into a run.

In 25 years of doing this kind of rhythm throughout the year, I've never felt this way this my wondering about the medication.
befitter
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What time do you take your BP meds versus when you run? My BP med makes me tired for around 4 hours so I take it at bedtime. By the time I workout in the morning I'm good to go.
aznaggiegirl07
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Are you starting your runs adequately hydrated?
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