Normal results likely due to meds

Dear Dr. Gott: Should I continue to take my high blood pressure medicine if, after 10 months, the readings are normal?

Dear Reader: Yes, you should. Your normal blood pressure is probably the result of the medicine.

Hypertension isn’t like chicken pox; you don’t acquire it, get treated, recover and that’s it. High blood pressure can last for years and requires daily therapy. If you prematurely discontinue treatment without your doctor’s approval, the blood pressure may skyrocket, leading to stroke or heart disease.

Of course, patients’ needs change over time, so periodic adjustment is appropriate. For example, obese hypertensive patients who lose weight may find their blood pressures will become more normal, necessitating a reduction in medication.

Similarly, alcohol often worsens hypertension; thus, the ex-drinker may not need as much medicine. Such a therapeutic decision should be made by your physician. Don’t stop your medicine without his approval.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Hypertension.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dear Dr. Gott: I was diagnosed with dermatomyositis. I took massive doses of prednisone and methotrexate until the symptoms were under control. Now I have a terribly itchy scalp with no relief from over-the-counter medications. Is this from the medicine or part of the illness? What can I do about it?

Dear Reader: Dermatomyositis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the muscles and skin, causing weakness, arthritis and a characteristic skin rash. The diagnosis is made by blood tests and biopsies. Treatment includes steroids (prednisone) and anti-metabolic drugs such as methotrexate.

Frankly, I doubt that your scalp problem is associated with the disease; it’s more likely a consequence of one or both medications, either of which can cause hair loss and dry scalp.

You should see a dermatologist for a definitive diagnosis. He may suggest patience (if he believes the situation will resolve of its own accord) or he may recommend treatment with a variety of topical lotions and oils. Let me know what he says.

Dear Dr. Gott: I have recently become involved with naturopathy and much of it makes a good deal of sense. However, the program advises hydrotherapy or colonics. What is your opinion of this treatment?

Dear Reader: Pure hogwash. Save your money. Colon cleansing (the use of frequent forceful enemas) and similar techniques are unproven and worthless. Most experts categorize them as quackery.