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» redback - Pressure points?

Way back in the 60s, my understanding of hypertension was giving it an ICD code as I learned about illness via the system affected (circulatory) and the code illness was given, not vice versa. ICD 440-447.

I was diagnosed 'borderline 444' many years ago as an incidental finding ie asymptomatic. The last research I had examined at the time indicated it was problematic to take medication so I proceeded with caution. And after illness and injury had receded, I really had no need to continue with medication. A decision I advised the doctor about, not vice versa. I don't hide my decisions, good or bad, from my doctor. But my health is too important to leave in their hands.

What is hypertension? For me as a diabetic, hypertension kicks in at > 130/80. If I was a non-diabetic and allegedly further from risk, my endocronologist would "allow" me a few more runs. I have a kit and every so often, take my measurement...right arm, sitting and record it in the diabetic book. I don't worry about the occasional elevation incl during any stressful clinic visit.

Back then, to get the 'borderline' diagnosis, I measured my blood pressure 3 times a day over 4 weeks. And again for 2 weeks once medication commenced. For a diagnosis to be accurate, it does require several measurements and the period may need to be shorter for a person with symptoms.

Obviously, life has changed with the subsequent diabetes and a few more grey hairs. OK, more correctly, a balding head. The longer we live, the greater the risk. One of these risks is the effects of an icreaseing mix of medication. The other is, if it tastes great, someone will say it's bad for you...if they haven't already!

-- posted by redback

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» Alicia Mae Prater - Pressure points?

In response to Pressure points? posted by redback:

The guidelines for what constitutes Hypertension have changed in the past few years. As has a new disorder call pre-hypertensive, which is that 130/80 you mentioned. Anyone with consistent blood pressure measurements of 140/90 or higher are considered to have hypertension by current guidelines. Anyone with heart disease or cardiovascular complications (like diabetes) are easily pre-hypertensive by the guidelines. The American Heart Association often stresses lifestyle, diet, and health adjustments before pharmaceutical intervention for the lowest grade disorder.

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