cough

[Doug Hogan]

I am not sure , but it seems to me that since I started taking Atacand that it has started an itch in my throat and a strong upper resportory type cough....It is very aggrivating having this itch and a horst type cough...I did not have this harsh of allergy attachs before I started taking this RX, > Yes, I do have allergies, like most folks, but this is a little different as it came really come on hard...My first hypertension RX was Lisinoprin and I could only take it for about 3 or 4 days and I was also have worst reaction, such as cough, throat feeling like it was closing. So now all I can think about is stopping it and working with something natural,,,,any comments

[Jenni Morgan]

Ive tried a couple of different medications and like you experienced severe coughing. I've been swapped onto Atacand (Candesartan) and am now having problems with my throat (although the dr says its nothing to do with the drug!)The cough has more or less gone but I now feel like there is a constant lump in my throat and occasionally food gets caught. My Dr tells me it is stress and nothing to do with the drug but having looked online it seems that lots of people are experiencing problems similar to mine - am just off to see my doctor again - Cambridge UK

[Connie]

Two years ago I was put on Atacand, first I was put on 2 other blood pressure meds but I got edema in my legs and the other made me feel unwell. Atacand and a low dose of 8mg per day seems to keep my b/p within a normal range, however, I was a person who worked full time, took ballroom dancing, cycled and went to the gym. I didn't think too much at first when the itch in my throat started me coughing all the time because the doctor said not to be concerned it couldn't be the medication so I let it go. Prior to taking Atacand I would generally get one mild cold lasting 4-5 days usually in November or December which is our winter. Since taking Atacand I have had broncitis several times (3 times per year for the last 2 years and twice it's turned into pneumonia. I also feel like my throat closes up and often feel as if I'm choking from just a little crumb of toast or another tiny piece of food in my throat, it's like my throat has become super sensitive. I have been exhausted for the past 22 months and have had to stop working. I feel as if I can't get enough air at times and have a general feeling of unwellness. I was a happy and active person prior to taking Atacand. Is it all a coincidence? I don't think so. The doctor's have tested me for everything under the sun and thank God, all tests are normal. I'm going to discuss with my doctor tomorrow about coming off of Atacand and perhaps trying an alternative. I'm very suspicious, why would an active person slowly deteriorate like this? Sure, I agree with the doctors that I'm depressed! But that's because my life has been put on hold and I can't cycle, ballroom dance, or work!!!! but they're not listening to me!!! that's all that's depressing me!!! If anyone wants to email me I can be reached at [e-mail] but if you do, make sure you put ATACAND FORUM in the subject line or it may go to my junk email folder. Thanks for listening to me vent.....in case the forum blanks my address out i will write it another way so you can figure it out: vcanbc5 at aol dot com

[Karen Bowie Maryland]

I was on Diazide for HB, but had to come off because it caused my glucose to shoot up and I became a diabetic. Then doctor put me on Lisinopril, just found out that all my coughing at night and dry mouth and lips was due to Lisinopril. Now he wants to put me on Avapro..checked that on the internet and that does the same. Alternative Meds here I come

[Linda]

I was on Avapro...not problem. But switched to Lisinoprin because it was $6 a month versus $50 for the Avapro (not supported by my insuranc). After I was on Lisinoprin for about a month, I got a cold and had the most bizarre and violent coughing attacks with a closed throat like there was an obstruction. Nothing worked to stop the cough...drops, drugs, etc. Finally realized it was the Lisinoprin and have gone back to the Avapro.

[tommmybear]

obviously it's the meds causing this closing of the throat and other respiratory problems---I say go to a different DR. if you Dr. isnt listening to you guys----and get the hell off this medication fast!!!!

[Josie Daypuk]

YES ... I started Atacand about 9 months ago. I've always had mild allergies to dust and "spring things" - but I was able to live with the allergies without taking medications. These became much worse with the Atacand and doctor put me on Singular and then several Antibiotics for recurring sinus infections that never went away. My coughs became worse and heavier mucous developed in my throat - and never went away. At night I would "choke" on phlegm and wake up totally exhausted. Eating became painful - my throat was always swollen. Until we considered stopping Atacand - nothing worked. After 14 days OFF Atacand, I'm back to my old self. No more cough, no more congestion.

Doug Hogan wrote:

I am not sure , but it seems to me that since I started taking Atacand that it has started an itch in my throat and a strong upper resportory type cough....It is very aggrivating having this itch and a horst type cough...I did not have this harsh of allergy attachs before I started taking this RX, > Yes, I do have allergies, like most folks, but this is a little different as it came really come on hard...My first hypertension RX was Lisinoprin and I could only take it for about 3 or 4 days and I was also have worst reaction, such as cough, throat feeling like it was closing. So now all I can think about is stopping it and working with something natural,,,,any comments

[Seeking Normal]

Yes, definitely get off Atacand. Same thing happened to me. I was a "happy" high blood pressure person until taking ATACAND. I recognize the importance of having a "normal" blood pressure, and if need be will go on another drug. There are many different types of blood pressure medication, and if you have to be on one for your health - it is important to work with your doctor to find the right one. We have to be diligent though in reporting our side effects to doctors and not overlook them - thinking they are something else - like an allergy etc. I know I always felt good before Atacand - so when things changed after taking it - it made sense that it was the medication causing problems. Talk to your doctor before taking your actions.

Connie wrote:

Two years ago I was put on Atacand, first I was put on 2 other blood pressure meds but I got edema in my legs and the other made me feel unwell. Atacand and a low dose of 8mg per day seems to keep my b/p within a normal range, however, I was a person who worked full time, took ballroom dancing, cycled and went to the gym. I didn't think too much at first when the itch in my throat started me coughing all the time because the doctor said not to be concerned it couldn't be the medication so I let it go. Prior to taking Atacand I would generally get one mild cold lasting 4-5 days usually in November or December which is our winter. Since taking Atacand I have had broncitis several times (3 times per year for the last 2 years and twice it's turned into pneumonia. I also feel like my throat closes up and often feel as if I'm choking from just a little crumb of toast or another tiny piece of food in my throat, it's like my throat has become super sensitive. I have been exhausted for the past 22 months and have had to stop working. I feel as if I can't get enough air at times and have a general feeling of unwellness. I was a happy and active person prior to taking Atacand. Is it all a coincidence? I don't think so. The doctor's have tested me for everything under the sun and thank God, all tests are normal. I'm going to discuss with my doctor tomorrow about coming off of Atacand and perhaps trying an alternative. I'm very suspicious, why would an active person slowly deteriorate like this? Sure, I agree with the doctors that I'm depressed! But that's because my life has been put on hold and I can't cycle, ballroom dance, or work!!!! but they're not listening to me!!! that's all that's depressing me!!! If anyone wants to email me I can be reached at [e-mail] but if you do, make sure you put ATACAND FORUM in the subject line or it may go to my junk email folder. Thanks for listening to me vent.....in case the forum blanks my address out i will write it another way so you can figure it out: vcanbc5 at aol dot com

[Lisa]

Is there any natural "alternative" to atacand? How can a person reduce their blood pressure? My Boyfriend is on it and I am very healthy and I am extremely concerned. He is overweight a little and not very active. Can a good diet and exercise actually reduce high blood pressure? What food supplements can assist in lowering blood pressure?

[heather]

Symptoms, Tense, Angry and on edge most of the time, critical, also suffering from insomnia, diaorreah, sore eyes, and occasional dizziness - so different from the sweet person he usually is. This is only since my husband's medication was changed from Coversil 8mg to Atacand Plus about 5 months ago. His blood pressure has gone up significantly. He went back to the doctor at the Diabetic Institute (he is a type 2 diabetic) who actually increased the Atacand to double the dose and took out the diutietic - result - his blood pressure went to 206/115. I managed to get him another appointment at the Diabetic institute and he was put back to Atacand Plus and it dropped a little to 176/80? I am very worried. I rang the institute but the doctor did not return my call - my husband thinks I am making a fuss. I just wish the doctor would listen to my concerns and observations as I look after his medications. Has any one else had these symptoms. A list of current medications he is on are Aropax, Aspirin, Atacand Plus, Diabex, Diamicron, Lipex, Losec, and now he has been put on Vasocardol CD and taken off Adelat that he has been on for years. His blood pressure is still 183/86. Help

[tommmybear]

eating a bowl of oatmeal each morning really helps lower BP.....yes diet and exercise definitely do help---

Lisa wrote:

Is there any natural "alternative" to atacand? How can a person reduce their blood pressure? My Boyfriend is on it and I am very healthy and I am extremely concerned. He is overweight a little and not very active. Can a good diet and exercise actually reduce high blood pressure? What food supplements can assist in lowering blood pressure?

[tommmybear]

get to a healthy weight for your body type, walk at least 30 minutes per day, eat less red meat, more veggies, whole grains, especially oatmeal and oatbran.....try yoga to reduce stress.....all these things are key to lowering BP---get off those meds if you can

[Colleen]

Firstly I was on Coversyl Plus, and after taking it for 5 months I developed a irritating cough. Then I went to Altace Plus and the same thing happened. I switiched to Atacan Plus and the cough immediatedly started! This cough is life altering. I have to carry water with me at all times, because the cough does not usually stop unless I drink some water! The cough quickly turns into gagging and in turn brings up great amounts of saliva and other liquids (never food.) I find that I always have to be prepaired for the above. I am also experienceing a lump in my throat, which may or may not be a coincidence. I am woken during the night, and again must have water near my bed! I will be going to my doctor this week to try a 3rd medication-I hope I find one without coughing side effects soon! Oh yeah, for the record, my doctor assured me that Atacand Plus would not cause caughing, so it will be interesting what he has to say about that!

[Ronaye]

I'm glad I googled this site. I've been having problems of late more & more and I thought it was Crestor so got off that as my cholesterol came down and now taking Atacand 8mg for quite a few mos and having the sore throat, cough, tight in throat too, and REALLY cough when I choke on a piece of food, which I've never done before.
I read that Celery seed extract (Mayo Clinic) helps high blood pressure. Will be checking with Dr. and Pharmacist as I can relate how irritating and "scary" these symptoms are. I have Atrial Fib and have been "electrically converted twice" so I don't know which is scarier! I've worked for doctors for 10 years and know "how much they know" so would rather ask the Pharmacist and going to check out "Homeopathic path".

[Denise Sicamous BC]

Wow, I am so happy to see I'm not nuts! For the past 5 months I have suffered with major congestion, plugged ears, panic attacks and just feeling plain miserable and tired... my Dr. said I developed allergies.. I never had allergies before... but 5 months ago my Atacand was doubled from 8 to 16Mg.. I never even put two and two together.. the Dr. prescribed all this crap for allergies.. I go in every month and she just tells me my ears are still plugged and I now have polyps in my nose!! I've been doing tons of research since I found out it could be the Atacand.. and sure enough, every weird symptom I've had was on the list of side effects... having plugged ears has been a nightmare.. I actually felt suicidal a couple times because I couldn't get any relief... I stopped this crappy drug yesterday... does anyone know how long it takes to get it out of our system? My BP has been very good all day... and I seemed to have several moments of breathing out of both nostrils today... I sure hope I have figured out this mystery!
I googled heal blood pressure naturally and found a totally natural supplement that was on CNN and 60 mins.. can't remember what it was called but I'm going to try that.. My Dr. is obviously and IDIOT!

[Denise Sicamous BC]

Oh my list of symptoms:

Feeling like drowning
Anxiety, panic
Had a hive attack out of the blue.. watched it start at my head and go right to my feet.. very bizarre
Congestion
Chronic Rhinits
Allergies
Sweats
Tired
Itching
Lump in throat - very aggrivating

I found out these symptoms appear in less than 1%

[PK_Ontario]

My mom got the same symptoms..
She tried following with all coughing symptoms.
Verap SR
Mavik
Atacand
...Doctors are so stupid..The pharmacy guy figured it out...he said its your BP medicine..
She went for X-ray and everything is clear..
anybody has alternate cure or medicine for this without cough symptoms???

[Gail]

I was put on Lisinoprin because Inderol was no longer controlling my blood pressure. My blood pressure is great but I have had mucus and choking coughing spells that are getting worse and worse. I fell like I cannot breath or catch my breath during these coughing fits. I met my sister-in-law yesterday for a rare family gathering. She just quit taking Lisinoprin for the same symptoms that her doctor was kind enough to tell her to watch for. I will not take another dose of Lisinoprin and hope my doctor can find something kinder to replace it with for blood pressure control.

Gail

Doug Hogan wrote:

I am not sure , but it seems to me that since I started taking Atacand that it has started an itch in my throat and a strong upper resportory type cough....It is very aggrivating having this itch and a horst type cough...I did not have this harsh of allergy attachs before I started taking this RX, > Yes, I do have allergies, like most folks, but this is a little different as it came really come on hard...My first hypertension RX was Lisinoprin and I could only take it for about 3 or 4 days and I was also have worst reaction, such as cough, throat feeling like it was closing. So now all I can think about is stopping it and working with something natural,,,,any comments

[Gary]

After taking Lisinopril, I had this awful gagging cough which kept me awake all night every night and often made me reach. This drug also made me feel depressed, awful mood swings, put me right off sex, made me feel tired, drowsy most of the day! I was switched to Amlodipine which seemed to be great. I had been on this drug for 2 months with no side effects whatsoever and then suddenly my feet and lower legs swelled up and this was attributed to the Amlodipine. My feet became so fat with the swelling that it was impossible to get shoe on.
I am now taking Atacand 8mg but have only been on thsse for a week so far and without incident, I hope it stays thatway but after reading the above I have my doubts!

[Janet Clayton]

PK_Ontario wrote:

My mom got the same symptoms..
She tried following with all coughing symptoms.
Verap SR
Mavik
Atacand
...Doctors are so stupid..The pharmacy guy figured it out...he said its your BP medicine..
She went for X-ray and everything is clear..
anybody has alternate cure or medicine for this without cough symptoms???

I am trying to conquer a cough I'm getting from atacand. I was on bystolic and got the cough, then the dr changed it to the atacand. I was so relieved that I wouldn't cough anymore. Well folks, I'm coughing again. I'm taking the meds after a heart attack. I never had high or low blood pressure before. All this medication is making me very depressed. I'm considering stopping everything! I know that eating properly will keep the bp at a normal level.