Blood pressure

[midb]

I'm a 37male and started checking my blood pressure at local pharmacy a few months ago.  It is averaging around 168 over 95.  The chart on the machine says that it is high.  Should I go in or is it only borderline?

I had a physical about 3 1/2 years ago and don't remember anything then.  I was in a for a procedure (vas) a year and a half ago and it was a slightly high but they considered it "nerves".

Thoughts?

[mkh9]

Hi midb,
you don't have to get a physical but you need to get your blood pressure down. It is way too high. So, I would go in and have them check you out for that reason not necessarily a annual physical if you don't want that part done. Usually at your age you should around 110 or 120 over 70.
take care,
mkh9

[midb]

Thanks for your comments.

I have taken it several times with readings as low as 160 over 90 to 171 over 101 so I'm pretty sure it is not bad reading.

I guess I didn't think that I was really due for checkup...the last time I was in she didn't think that I needed to come in every year but I guess it is probably time.  It is usually a few weeks to get into see her....do you think it is more urgent than that?  What are the risks or problems?

I am sure that I can make many improvements in my diet etc.  I have been exercising pretty regularly two to three times a week for the past couple years.

Thanks!

[mkh9]

Hi midb,
I would go in because that is fairly high bp especially for your age.  Are you sure you took it right? Sometimes the arm is bent or  turned funny etc. I would start cutting way back on salt (no added salt). Try to buy canned goods with low or no salt. Fast food has tons of salt and frozen foods pre-prepared foods.  Do you exercise? If not start walking.  But it is best to go to the doctor since you need a checkup plus they can recheck your bp. and give you tips on how to lower it.  Best to try the Greek diet, which is lots of fruits and vegies and meat only 1-2 times a week or 4 ounch portions, no red meat only white meat and fish especially salmon, whole grains, feta or goat cheese but not the other types of cheeses (they have a lot of salt). Also, alcohol will raise your bp. I don't know if you drink or how much but that will have to be cut back if you drink alot. No partially hydrogenated fats (trans fat) , no chips ( I know tough to do) no pretzels or salted nuts.
hope this helps,
mkh9

[geminigirl1963]

I would suggest going to your doc to have it checked.  They may want to take a wait and see approach and check it periodically, but since HBP tends to not have any symptoms until it's REALLY high or has been elevated for a long period of time, it's always best to air on the side of caution.

Since you haven't had a complete physical in 3 1/2 years, it's probably time for that anyway.

With HBP, it's always best to be better safe than sorry IMO.