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blood pressure question

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Posted 2/19/2006 4:15 PM (GMT -6)
I have a question I hope someone can help me with.  The past couple of times I have gone to the doctors, I have had slightly elevated blood pressure....130/90 or so...it varies.  My doc has done 2 ekgs (acid reflux diagnosed but just to be sure).  He said I needed to get it under control or in the next 10 years would be on meds.  I am a 39 year old white female....not overweight but I have a 35 inch waist and I am 5'2'' so I know I carry a little too much belly fat.  Should I be worried?  What can I do to lower this blood pressure?  Should I ask for additional tests?  Thanks so much!!
Posted 2/19/2006 10:44 PM (GMT -6)
hearty,

We know that even "high-normal" blood pressures increase your risk for heart attack and stroke. http://toronto.fashion-monitor.com/news.php/health/2006012302high-blood-pressure (Not a medical site, but the info is correct in it) So your doctor is correct, most likely. Every time the JNC (Joint National Committee) comes out with an update on the guidelines for blood pressure management, they drop blood pressure goals lower and lower and become more and more aggressive. Website for JNC VII is here: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/hypertension/ There are some especially good pdf's on this site for patients.

Non-medical ways to decrease blood pressure:
Lose weight -- probably best way to lower bp
Exercise
DASH diet http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/hypertension/


Good luck to you
Posted 2/19/2006 11:45 PM (GMT -6)
Hello Hearty; Just a little extra exercise and lowering your salt and fat intake should be enough to lower your B/P without taking meds. It seems when we reach or near the age of 40, our medical problems seems to increase. Sounds like your doing good so far, just keep in mind what the DR. said. Doing the right thing now could save you alot of problems in the future. Good luck and i'll keep you in my prayers. DELTA
Posted 2/20/2006 10:10 AM (GMT -6)

Hi hearty,  As already said diet and exercise should make a world of differance in your BP.  My mother was taking medications for hypertension for many yrs.  She started to exercise and eat low fat and low carb diet and now she is off the meds.  Not to bad for a 51 year old woman, huh?

Good luck, and please keep us updated.......

Posted 2/20/2006 3:16 PM (GMT -6)
Hi Hearty

My $.02.......You have been given great advice already. I can't understand how you cannot be a tad overweight, if you are 5' 2" and have a waist line of 35". Wait control, blood glucose control, a heart healthy diet and a good exercise plan will keep you off of the medicines, I'll bet. Remember that with each pill, there is a little poison with it.

Have you ever heard of the "white coat syndrome"? Some believe it exists. Keep a track of how your BP is trending. Stop at all the marts and pharmacies that have the BP machines, when time permits, and start to notice it.

Good luck
RJ
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