High Blood Pressure Concerns [posted 11/3/98] Question: I found that my Blood Pressure was 149/92 at several times of testing. What can cause this problem and is it serious?
I can’t tell you the cause without more history/physical exam. Most of the time, we don’t find a specific cause and we just treat the symptoms. The treatment guidelines are now anything consistently above 135/85. It used to be 140/90 depending on age and other risk factors. It should be treated if usually above 135/85. But, the first way to treat this is to lose 10 pounds and see what effect that has. A low salt diet will help occasionally. If these do not work(5-6 months) see your MD. Blood Pressure & Beta Blockers [posted 10/30/98] Question: I have taken blood pressure medicine for 10 years. Untill 6/98 I was taking prinivil and now I am taking Diovan and Cardura. I have 2 questions. The first question is my blood pressure is running about 130/82 when I’m relaxed, but when I go to the Doctor or get excited about something it is about 155/100. Also, if I exercise a lot for a few days my bloodpressure goes up. Is this normal? My second question is about beta blockers. I had a heart cat
