Why does this program use a 7-day home log instead of one reading?
A single reading, especially in a clinic, can be misleadingly high ("white-coat" effect) or miss the real picture. Averaging two morning and two evening readings over a week, after throwing out the first day, gives a far more accurate number. A home average of 135/85 or higher is what defines treatable high blood pressure in this program, and it is the same standard used to guide treatment in cardiology practice.
What does 'designed and reviewed by a cardiology-fellowship-trained physician' mean?
This program was built by, and every visit is reviewed by, a physician who completed additional fellowship training in cardiology on top of standard medical training. That means the choice of medication is matched to your profile using the same guideline logic a cardiologist uses, for example, a calcium channel blocker or water pill first for some patients, or a kidney-protective medication for those with diabetes or kidney disease.
Which medication will I be started on?
One first-line medication is chosen for you: amlodipine, lisinopril, losartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or chlorthalidone. The choice depends on your age, background, and health conditions, for instance, a calcium channel blocker or water pill is often preferred first-line for Black patients without kidney disease, while an ACE-inhibitor or ARB is preferred when there is diabetes with protein in the urine or chronic kidney disease. Water pills are avoided if you have a history of gout, and ACE-inhibitors and ARBs are never used in pregnancy or after angioedema.
Why do you need my kidney labs?
An ACE-inhibitor (lisinopril), an ARB (losartan), or a water pill (hydrochlorothiazide or chlorthalidone) can affect your kidney function and potassium, so a creatinine and potassium result from within the last 6 months is required before starting or continuing any of them. If you don't have labs yet, we may still be able to start amlodipine, which doesn't require them, but you'll need labs before your next step or refill.