I have been on Benicar (to lower BP) for a number of years and at 66 YO my BP has been elevated 140+ on some occasions. I'm at 185 right now down from 200 lbs 3 months ago.
Because of the very high humidity and temps over the last few weeks I have been drinking more water when on bike rides (approx 20 miles a day) and generally more water around the house. I'm also drinking Perrier or Pellegrino instead of soda. To my surprise my BP has dropped rather dramatically. Previously I was in the 130 range and now find it down in the 110 range with diastolic also down around 60 vs mostly 70+ before. So is the combination of exercise and better hydration giving me more favorable results. Since I'm a pilot I've been concerned about the high BP and while it has never been an issue the FAA doesn't like to see pilots on BP meds. I will continue to consume more water and see if this benefit persists. I'd love to go to the doctor in Nov and get the OK to stop Benicar if all goes well. Then go for my flight physical in Dec and not have to deal with the hassle of BP meds.
Does this all sound logical? Lower BP from exercise and better hydration.
