Dr. says to eat more salt?!
 

I've been having dizzy spells this year, especially when I stand up. The doctor said I have low blood pressure and recomeded that I eat more salt and drink more water. I've always had low blood pressure, but I think the Tysabri may make it worse, so I've started pushing out my Ty schedule by two to four days each time.

Either the salt or the less frequent Ty is helping.

Anyone else have this problem?

Katty

Yes, I have low blood pressure, have had periods of dizziness, and discovered that pretzels are my solution. :) (I'm not on Tysabri though).

Cherie

seriously? I've never heard this. Is this anecdotal or is there reserch on this? wow, salt?!?!?! Who'd-a-thuk? Ken

"Low blood pressure is when the blood pressure range falls below normal. It results in a number of symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, thirst, lack of concentration, fainting and tiredness. There are a number of treatments that will help relieve many of the symptoms. Epsom salt baths, adding salt to your diet, taking vitamins, eating a healthy diet and doing moderate exercise are all proven treatments for low blood pressure."

http://www.ehow.com/how_5163540_cure...-pressure.html

I knew my blood pressure was low, always has been, but when it was causing considerable difficulty (dizziness, fainting; I have a monitor at home), I did some research. I discovered increasing salt might help, and pretzels are a low cal option.

I drink lots of water, and eat several very salty pretzels. Works for me. :)

Cherie

I was pretty surprised when she said "more salt" but it does make sense. Doctors always tell people with high blood pressure to lay off the salt, so I guess going the other way works too. I have very low blood pressure, eat fairly well and excercise somewhat faithfully. To reduce dizzyness I just add salt to my meals and drink more water.

The pretzels sound good, too.

Kim doesn't have dizziness, but her arms fall sometimes get numb at night when she sleeps on them. Oddly, this does not happen during the week she takes Flagyl. I'm on a second mattress and have bought 2 different toppers and now I'm thinking about plywod. But, is blood pressure associated with "I slept on my arm and now it's numb" ??? Ken

I'm not sure if it can be, Ken, but my neuro seems to think that numbness is from my spinal lesions ... kinda' like L'hirmettes, but affecting my hands and feet.

She should test herself at every opportunity for a little while, and it seems many of us have blood pressure problems.

Cherie

You may want to ask to have a blood test to make sure you don't have a sodium deficiency.

My stepmom developed one, and has salt and cheese on hand for when she gets light headed from not getting enough.

:hug::hug: