mgraylorn

They call high blood pressure the "silent killer" because most people don't have any symptoms until they have a stroke or heart attack or drop dead. You've already had a warning in the stroke. The next one may kill you.

At your blood pressure levels, if you don't have damage yet, you will soon. You need to work hard to get it down. There are lots and lots of different medications, singly and in combination that can be used. If your doctor isn't trying hard to get your blood pressure down then you need to find another doctor immediately.

As to why your bp is so high - I can't possibly guess. At your age an adrenal gland tumor might be suspected, and there are tests for that. You say you saw a kidney doctor and things are OK there. You should also see a cardiologist to see if you have a heart problem.

Other things to consider are family history of high blood pressure, bad diet, high salt consumption and obesity and lack of exercise.

You should also get a home blood pressure monitor and take your own resting readings to see how your bp looks at home. Some people have slightly elevated bp in the doctor's office - but even if that is the case with you, your bp is still way too high.