Question:
Self diagnosed high blood pressure

Hi, all! Every time I have seen a doctor in the last 4 years I have had high blood pressure readings (much over 120/80), but no doctor has prescribed medication or even called me hypertensive. My last reading was 140/100. I am 30 years old and every time I ask a doctor about this, they say that we'll keep an eye on it. Are my high readings enough to get approval or do I need to be classified by a doctor as "hypertensive"? Thanks! Rhonda    — Rhonda J. (posted on August 7, 2002)

August 6, 2002
Rhonda, You know I thought I had high blood pressure all this time and it turns out that the nurse was using the wrong size cuff. Check that out. :) Cathy
   — jenlaur1

August 6, 2002
Your bottom number (called the diastolic) being 100 is a little worrisome. My question to you would be do you have any other symptoms?? Headache?? Ringing in the ears?? IF so, make sure that you talk to your doc about those soon. It would also not be a bad idea for you to try and monitor your own blood pressure. HEre is the one caveat...you need to get the right size cuff. So it may be a special order item. Go to a local drug store and ask a pharmacist for some assistance with that. Don't let your doc "keep an eye on it" for much longer. At 30 years old, your blood pressure should be lower.
   — Vicki L.

August 7, 2002
How long has your MD been "keeping an eye on it?" If it stays at that range for more than 6 mns to one year I would say either get another MD or confront him and stand up for your health. Has your cholesterol etc. been checked? Your blood pressure has been documented in your chart and should be good enough for insurance purposes. Good luck to you and your journey
   — Lynn L.

August 9, 2002
Rhonda, you can go to your MD's office for a blood pressure check and tell them to be sure to chart it in your chart. That way you can start a record of it.
   — Sherry C.

August 9, 2002
Hypertension is nothing to play with. You need to go to a doctor and express your concerns/symptoms about it. I don't want to be an alarmist, but I had one friend who ignored it and had a stroke at the age of 32. Blood pressure medication is a simple thing these days and gets it under control easily. Cut back on salt and fats, to. Symptoms can be headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, pain in the arms, etc. And a side benefit is that you get your doctor to document your co-morbidity.
   — Cathy S.