Update on BP :) - High & Low Blood Pressure Message Board

zekat · 02-03-2005, 04:38 AM

I know some of you have read my backgroud so I'll make it real quick

I went to my doctor two weeks ago who put me on BP meds because my BP had consistently been high for over a year. I was not comfortable w/ the med so found a new doc. The new doc did not want to start me on meds just yet as I am 28 & have a few lifestyle changes I could make. I'm terrified of having my BP taken, also. So I have a follow up appointment with her in a month and in the meantime I have quit smoking (today is day 3), started exercising (day 3 again) and monitoring my BP at home (today is day 5). So, I just wanted to share my results!!

My last BP before quitting smoking & starting exercise: 140/92 w/ a heart rate of 87

My BP last night after quitting smoking & starting exercise (and some pretty intense prayers on my mothers part): 125/83 w/ a heart rate of 67!!!! I didn't beleive it. I waited an hour and took it again 118/88 w/ a heart rate of 63. I woke up this morning and it's 116/81 w/ a heart rate of 65!!!

I am having a difficult time stopping smoking, but I am determined to stay quit. I swear it has honestly DESTRESSED my life... I think smoking kept my heart-rate up which added to my anxiety problems.

Anyhow -- I just thought I'd give an update on my situation. I appreciate you ALL for your input on my other posts -- the support here is amazing!

Lenin · 02-03-2005, 05:12 AM

Well, it's certainly a testament to the power of quitting smoking.
I hope the good numbers continue for you.

bharkins · 02-03-2005, 08:59 AM

Zekat,

Oh, it it so wonderful to see your good numbers. Keep hanging in there. Things may get more difficult for you in the next week or so because of missing the "butts" and this, in turn, can raise your BP because of the anxiety it may cause. Just don't give up. Think of the good numbers.
When I was going through cold turkey I would say a little prayer whenever I had a craving. Good luck!!!!

jtu91952 · 02-03-2005, 09:31 AM

Congrats on quitting smoking and your good bp readings.

Gatormom · 02-03-2005, 09:37 AM

Zekat, YOU MADE MY DAY! I'm so delighted to read your good news. The power of a determined woman, her determined mother, and prayer! Keep on keeping on, take one day at a time, and each new day takes you one day farther away from the cigarettes. Tell people you are an ex-smoker. Sit in the NON smoking section. Think of the money you're saving on cigarettes! Think how fresh your hair smells! Think of those tiny parts inside your lungs and your blood vessels saying "AHHHH......what a relief!" Think of your friend Cuffy helping you out, no longer something to fear, but an ally in your war. I'm proud! You're around the age of my daughters and I am so interested in seeing you succeed. God bless! ! ! !