Mr. Norris,
I cannot tell you what is happening, but I will try to help you find out.
The rapid pulsation may indicate a common cardiac rhythm problem called PAT (paroxysmal atrial tachycardia), easily controlled. Do you feel light-headed or dizzy when this happens?
I can't put the twitching in with PAT, but it should not be an emergent consideration.
Since your BP has been found to be elevated, I suggest what I tell my patients (I'm a nephrologist and deal with BP and kidney problems).
Monitor your own BP. Buy a BP measuring device (sphygmomanometer) at your local drug store; get one that is totally automatic and with a digital readout. Do not pay top price; if your store carries its own brand, get that.
Later in our discussion (it doesn't end here), we'll talk about the latest guidelines proposed by the Society for Hypertension.
I also start my patients on an ACE inhibitor; these have proved to be kidney and cardiovascular protective. Again, the recommendation of the AHA and the kidney foundation.
Since you're going to see your physician on the 23rd, I don't see anything emergent here. Of course, I can't examine you.
Frank Nash
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What I tell you is what I teach. I'm here to help improve your quality of life, and I'll work with you as long as necessary to help you.
