What Causes Slightly Raised BP?

Posted on Wed, 23 Jul 2014

Question: I am XXXXXXX XXXXXXX female age 54. my height is 5'3 and weight is 137. I have a family history of high blood pressure. My blood pressure has been normal until now. My reading today was 138/92. Yesterday it was 142/93. What is this reading telling me? I am a ex-Olympic athlete. I currently exercise 3-4 times a week. I never smoked and have 1-2 glasses of wine a week. I have noticed recently that I like a lot of salty foods.

Answered by Dr. Kerry Pottinger (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Lifestyle changes and consider medication.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic. From the information you have provided I conclude that your blood pressure is marginally raised. A blood pressure which is consistently greater than 140/90 is considered raised. You have a couple of risk factors which you have highlighted, ie, XXXXXXX XXXXXXX and having a family history of high blood pressure. This puts you at slightly a increased risk of having a heart attack or stroke.
Therefore, I advise you see your doctor to consider starting medication. The initial approach would be life-style changes for a blood pressure of this level. However, you appear to lead a healthy life-style already. Your BMI is 24 which is in your favor and you take regular exercise and drink very little alcohol. In addition it is worth considering reducing your caffeine intake and reducing your salt intake to less than 6g per day. Relaxation techniques can also help.
I hope this is of help. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB FRCA

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

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