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$Title{Borderline Blood Pressure:  Do I Require Medication?}
$Subject{Borderline Blood Pressure level levels medicine medicines Medication
medications test tests testing weight diet diets alcohol salt eat consume
consumption exercise exercises}
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Causative Factors of Hypertension*0009601.scf
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Exercise Lowers Triglycerides and Raises HDL*0003203.scf
Risk Factors of Atherosclerosis*0009302.scf}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Borderline Blood Pressure:  Do I Require Medication?


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QUESTION:  I am a male, age 51, feel fine and fit, and am enjoying life.  I
recently had my blood pressure checked at a health fair, with the results of
145/90.  I was told this represented a borderline reading and that a checkup
with my physician was advisable.  Does this mean I face a life of taking
medication every day?  What other alternatives are available or is it all too
late?  I am sure others might profit from your answer to me.

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ANSWER:  It is never too late, and a man with your positive attitude has the
best chance of all to change this, if it really needs changing.  To start a
single reading at a health fair is not enough to make a diagnosis.  There are
too many possibilities it could be wrong.  So you need another test or two to
verify the true level of your blood pressure.  Even if it is borderline, there
are at least 4 personal actions you might take to drive it back down to normal
ranges.  Take off the few extra pounds you are probably carrying around.  Even
a small reduction in weight may have significant impact on your pressure.
Reduce alcohol intake to no more than 1 ounce of alcohol daily (equal to 2 oz
of whiskey, 8 oz of wine, or 24 oz of beer).  Reduce salt consumption to
1.5-2.5 g daily.  Finally, start an exercise program, for example a walking
program that can provide excellent outcomes after time.  And take that advice
to consult your physician, for after all your blood pressure may actually be
normal when properly taken.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.