new member with questions - High & Low Blood Pressure Message Board

wass24 · 05-23-2003, 11:13 PM

I am a 26 year old male who is in average shape. I have a job that keeps me sitting for 8 hours a day but for the past 4 weeks have been running 2 miles 5 days a week.
In the doctors office I have blook pressure readings of the 140-158 range over 70. I get very nervous in the doctors office (heart beats hard and fast). I have also taken my blood pressure numerous times in grocery stores and at pharmacies. I tracked my reading for a week and they were in the lower to mid 130's over 60's. Bottom number is fine top is high and I think my doctor is leaning towards meds. I do not know to much and am worried, any thoughts from people.
thanks

cloverberry · 05-24-2003, 11:13 AM

you've got the white coat syndrome that's why your blood pressure is higher in the doctors office. If you're concerned buy a blood pressure monitor and take a reading at home. Take the monitor with you when you go to the doctor and if it's the same as the doctors you don't have to worry you're just get nervous at the doctors office. If he's rejecting the idea try another doctor. My blood pressure was always higher at the doctors office but it was normal at home so he had me bring in my monitor. He said he got the same reading as my monitor so my monitor was OK. I started seeing a different doctor and my blood pressure was always lower than what I was getting at home so I bought a new blood pressure monitor.

sunbird_owner · 05-24-2003, 11:59 AM

Clover is right.

Take about three weeks of BP readings at the same time during the day. Write down each reading. Take this to your doctor. If these are good, then you are in good shape.

Jay

zuzu8 · 05-24-2003, 09:34 PM

I think your doc may be a little over zealous right now.

You are 26 and have started a good exercise regimen, and have very good BP #s when you're not at the doc's office.
Why on earth would your doctor be leaning toward meds at this point, at this age, especially since you are making a concerted effort with lifestyle change?

Try to also get out of the salt habit, by not adding any extra to the foods you eat. (Lemon, pepper, onion, and garlic really help when you miss salt!) And stay away from packaged stuff that's loaded with sodium.

130s/60 does not warrant meds........ The rest is "white coat".
But do track your BP with a good monitor of your own, as suggested. Don't rely on pharmacy ones.

zuzu xxxx