I, too, have lots of difficulty with side effects of medications. My arch measurement is 4.6 cm and so far I have
not started any BP meds. In clinic my BPs are always higher, so I take them regularly at home. I run about 110-118 systolic and 65-70s diastolic. So far my doctor hasn't prescribed any BP med for me. I could probably take a statin as my LDL is a little high, but HDL is very good and triglycerides in normal range so I haven't started on one so far. Will do a followup echo in March to see if the measurement is staying the same; if so, will just carry on as is I think. I am almost 72 and there is a lot to be said for quality of life too (not being miserable every single day because of med side effects). I did find with much trial and error with my thyroid med that I do much much better on a liquid prep than a solid. (I have to pay more and have my doctor authorize for me but it is SO worth it. I can take the med with minimal side effects). I believe I have allergies/sensitivities to the fillers in meds. You may want to ask your doctor for a BP med with a liquid preparation? and see how your body responds? Enalapril, an ACE inhibitor, like lisinopril, comes in liquid preparation I believe. Perhaps that will work for you? wishing you all the best. Keep us posted on your progress 🙂