height blood pressure?

Question

I am 18 yrs old , 6 foot 3 weigh 200 lbs. my blood pressure is approx. 135/75 is that considered pre-hypertension?

Answer 1

If you are consistently getting resting systolic (the high number) readings that high, then yes, it's a little high. (I'm not big on labels such as "pre-hypertension".) Fact is, over the long haul, even this sort of elevation in BP increases risk for heart damage, stroke, etc. down the road.

You should be able to find something in your lifestyle to change and fix the problem.

I recommend checking your BP regularly, so that you can get a better sense of what helps and what does not help. Home digital BP cuffs can be found at your local drug store for about $50 (ask your pharmacist for a recommendation). Take your BP with your feet flat on the floor, sitting in a chair, after having rested for a few minutes.

As to lifestyle changes, a few are downright easy:

1. Cut back sodium intake to about 2000mg/day or less. This can be as easy as checking food labels and cutting out certain salty restaurant foods. (I know that at your age dropping fast food might be tough, but it might be necessary)

2. Increase potassium intake, perhaps by eating more fresh fruit (oranges and bananas, in particular).

3. If your BMI is > 25, work to get it back down to that ball park.

4. If you smoke, quit.

5. Don't ingest caffeine before taking your BP (it will raise it temporarily).

6. If you snore, get yourself checked for sleep apnea. It can be responsible for hypertension, oddly enough.

I could go on and on...

Answer 2

You've received some good advice so far.

I suspect that the lifestyle changes can lower your blood pressure, especially the reduction in sodium intake. It's a good idea to monitor your blood pressure. Make sure to get 20-60 minutes of aerobic exercise 5 times per week.

If your blood pressure does not go lower, you might consider taking a garlic suppliment. There are many natural dieuretics that you can consume.

If your blood pressure goes up, I'd consult with a doctor, but I'd ask him to try a dieuretic drug first. That's because they can be more effective than more sophisticated drugs and they have fewer side effects.

Answer 3

Hi. It is not pre hypertension. The normal values are 90-135 for systolic and 60-85 for diastolic. To confirm a increased BP, you must have a reading above these values, for minimum of three consecutive times. The best way to maintain normal BP is : Low salt diet, increased exercise and no smoking, low fat diet. Exercise includes jogging, swimming and aerobic exercises. duration is 20-60 mins for 5 days a week. You need to perspire to let the extra fluid go out.

Answer 4

It is a little bit high. Start eating right and exercise.