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bp

henryfran1938 said:
checked my blood pressure
168 -88
164-86
169-89
is that bad or good
thank u
Click to expand...

that's on the high side... although not at dangerously high level (my doc doesn't like my BP over 180/100... I can get readings like 210/115 easily when in pain). I have to monitor my BP regularly myself as I have hypertension and pain just makes my BP worse as I gave you an example of. You should be speaking to your doc about your readings though as you may need to be placed on meds to help lower your BP. If you're already on meds, you may need your dosage reviewed or maybe your doc may try a different medication for you. Also your doc will probably want to investigate the cause of your high BP if it continues.... eg. is it a temporary thing due to infection, etc. I know it's an awful feeling seeing those numbers on the monitor. If you're feeling unwell at all, you may need to see a doc sooner than later. I wish you the best. :)
 
Hi Henryfran! It is important to note what you have been doing prior to taking your BP, times you are taking it - try to be fairly consistent - what your emotions are, etc. Random BPs don't really tell you much....The Systolic reading (top one) is influenced by activity, emotions, eating, etc. The Diastolic (bottom one) really gives a better picture of what your heart and blood vessels are doing.....Hope that helps! Remember too, that some people will consistently have a higher BP reading at the Doc's office as they suffer from "White Coat Syndrome" - fear of the Doc!! The hubby's BP is always sky high at the office and just fine when I take it at home:) One interesting thing also is that the typical 120/80 "standard" was derived from testing young healthy males, so not really useful as we age, etc.!
 
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