That exhaustion or overwhelm is often called hypertension treatment fatigue, and it affects many people, says Amit Blumfield, MD, a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology in New York. Dr. Blumfield says you might need more frequent checks while your doctor adjusts medications and fewer once your blood pressure is stable. After all the effort you’ve put into treatment and lifestyle changes, a high blood pressure reading might feel personal. It’s important to remember that your blood pressure reflects more than your daily choices. Genetics and how your body responds to medications are all factors, Blumfield says.[4] Blumfield suggests support groups. “Finding people in the community in a similar situation to you and seeing how they experience it can often normalize the way you’re feeling and help alleviate stress,” he says. “It’s crucial to advocate for yourself,” Blumfield says, though it’s not always easy, especially if you feel rushed or worry about seeming difficult. “Not every physician will be the right physician for every patient,” says Blumfield, who encourages seeking a second opinion to find a doctor you feel more comfortable talking with. The next step in treatment may involve checking whether another condition is contributing to hypertension and trying a different type of medication, explains Blumfield. Blumfield recommends discussing an evaluation for conditions such as sleep apnea or hormone problems.
