What Causes Significant Difference In Systolic And Diastolic Pressures?

Posted on Wed, 15 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 15 Jul 2015 Answered on

Tue, 4 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 67 year old male who had stage 3 colon cancer 9 years ago. I have been getting a little stronger with more energy ever since, but I was left with some neuropathy in my hands and feet from the chemo. I also had a large gap between the systolic and diastolic numbers. The systolic can be 168, while the diastolic will be borderline 85 or so. Can you tell me what caused the gap to widen and it's significance?

Thankyou, XXXXXXX

My email address is YYYY@YYYY

Answered by Dr. Ilir Sharka (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
I would explain as follows:

Detailed Answer:
Hello!

Thank you for asking on HCM!

Regarding your concern, I would like to explain that this blood pressure pattern may be caused by increased arterial wall stiffness (which is seen more commonly in elderly individuals or those with certain systemic diseases); also in the presence of increased thyroid function or an aortic regurgitant disorder.

You need to consult with your attending physician to perform a careful physical examination, thyroid hormone levels. If suspicions are raised, a resting ECG and a cardiac ultrasound may be needed.

Hope to have been of help!

Feel free to ask any other questions whenever you need!

Best regards!

Dr. Iliri

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar