Elevated systolic pressure

[Bob__0__0]

  I have tracked my blood pressure for the past 6-8 mos after a physician noted a high systolic pressure.  I have observed that when I first sit down to take my BP, my bp is at 145-150/65-75.  The diastolic is always acceptable but systolic is always slightly elevated.  After sitting for a few minues the systolic drops to 125-135 and the diastolic remains the same (65-75).  My internist shows no concern but cannot give me reasons for this behavior.  Does this pattern suggest anything.  I read of a French project that suggests this may be a stiffening (calcification) of the artierial walls - (sys-dia) > 60.  I exercise regularly - run 3-4 mi a day. Age 55.  Boring (uneventful) medical history.

[CCF CARDIO MD APS]

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Dear Bob,
It sounds like you might have a form of what is called white coat syndrome, i.e.
when at the doctors office or when alittle anxious regarding the measurement of your
blood pressure (as when you first sit down to take it), the initial reading is alittle high and then
subsequent readings (when you settle down or "chill out") are normal.  
This of course is nothing to worry about, and certainly you should not be on high blood pressure medications
unless you actually have high  blood pressure (usually defined as three consecutive high readings that are taken at least one week apart.)
I hope this information is useful. Information provided in the heart forum is for
general purposes only. Only your physician can provided specific diagnoses and therapies.
Feel free to write back with further questions. Good luck!