Beat blockers query

[rlw]

After a tiny scare earlier this year, I am back on beta blockers for my blood pressure. My specialist assures me that, could I actually do so, he would pass me to fly a jumbo jet such is the condition of my heart.

I've started swimming again and have already gone from a very tiring thirty lengths to a tiring forty lengths (and hoping to be back up to fifty in twenty minutes again soon) but I am bemused by the effect of the beta blockers. Since they are there to slow my heart down, does this mean that I won't be able to swim as quickly as before because the blood won't be pumping around as quickly, or will I just be able to swim more quickly with a lower pulse rate?

[Farmerpalmer]

Unfortunately one of the side effects of beta blockers, is that they can make you feel very tired. If this does not resolve itself, go back to your gP and ask them to change to a different type of drug. There are plenty to choose from and guidelines on selection.
Although beta blockers do slow your heart down, the blood pressure lowering effect is via a different action.
Have a read of the information leaflet you got with your medicine, but do not worry, there are many other types of drug which may suit you better, and do not cause tireness.

[Liokault]

What was your blood pressure out of interest?

[ucb]

Is there a reason why you aren't on an ACE inhibitor? It's unusual to be on a beta blocker as first line management for hypertension.