High Pulse Pressure

[Zane34]

My pulse pressure is high. For example a recent BP reading was 118/42 with a pulse pressure of 76 and a pulse rate of 58. I don't have a history of heart problems and my total cholesterol is 157. I am a 73 year old male. Should I be concerned? Should I see a cardiologist?

[kenkeith]

Normal resting pulse pressure is 40 (120-80).  If resting pulse is usually greater than 40, such as 60-80 it could indicate a hardening of the major arteries.  A high resting pulse pressure is harmful as there is an increased  probability to increase ageing (aging) or the heart, brain and kidneys.  

There have been studies that indicate for every 10 increase in pp there is a 10% increase for a heart problem.  And high pp combined with low heart rate (below 60, bradycardia) is associated with with increased intracranial pressure and should be reported to a physcian.  

The condition can be related to medication and lately my systole pressure is between 140-150 and diastole remains normal (around 80).  I will call  dr. to adjust or change medication as the systole pressure is unacceptable to me.