Isolated systolic hypertension

[Saylor23]

Hey I'm 22 yrs old male I have high blood pressure I've had it about 7 to 8 months now (or longer)...my numbers look like this 145/78, 142,75, 140/75, 137/75, 128/76 being the lowest I usually get. I'm on 100mg Losartan/hctz 25mg......last night my anxiety hit, because I had a few skipped beats and my Bp shot up to 168/86 but came down within mins to 137/80. How long "can" I live with numbers like this. Everything I read online about hypertension makes it seem like a life ending sentence to death by heart failure or coronary heart disease. I try and get some exercises almost everyday I don't always eat the healthiest but never eat a lot of junk but my numbers don't budge much they still say closer to the same. I don't see my cardiologist until February 2014. I had a 24hour monitor done came back normal, had an EKG done showed a small amount of thickening, but when we did the heart echo doctor said everything was normal no thickening, just a small leaky valve. Main question is how long can I live with numbers like that? I'm young but very worried, I want to be here for my family and girlfriend.

[Saylor23]

Thanks Doc,could a Kidney Renal test rule out kidney problems? That's a test ive done and it came back normal...I get a strong pulsating in my temples after eating food (even just vegetables) I also get it strong after exercising...i can feel it through my temples and head without feeling for it. Do you know what this could be from? I had a head CT and MRI done before this problem nothing out of the ordinary was found.....Its very annoying and its bothered me every since a bad sinus infection i had back 7 months ago.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
I understand your concern regarding your blood pressure numbers.  It is good that the initial test results were fine. Hypertension may be controlled with healthy food and regular exercise as well as intake of medications prescribed by your doctor. Secondary causes such as kidney and other underlying issues, if present, may need to be addressed also.  If the blood pressure does not improve, a change of medication may be indicated. It is best that you discuss this with your doctor for proper management. Take care and do keep us posted.