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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Should I Take Medication Or Change Lifestyle To Reduce BP?

My blood pressure is 135 /95. I'm a 62-year-old male, ex-smoker (quit 20 years ago) who is 6'1" and 205 pounds. I exercise and lift weights several times a week. Do I take blood pressure medication, or can I reduce my blood pressure through lifestyle changes -- food, more exercise?
Thank you, Jim D.
Thu, 11 Feb 2016
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Diabetologist,  's  Response
Hi,

Thanks for your question.
Noted your concern.

Considering your age, life style, current level of blood pressure, I may suggest life style modification in the form of-
- Smoking cessation.
- Regular exercise.
- Maintain healthy weight to maintain BMI (Body mass index) less than 25 if possible.
- Increase intake of green leafy vegetables, fruits.
- Decrease intake of salt and restrict salt containing food like bakery products.

There is also need to effect of blood pressure on various body organs for which I may suggest to do-
- ECG (Electrocardiogram) of heart.
- 2DEcho of heart.
- Complete Blood Count.
- Kidney Function Test.
- Lipid Profile
- Urine examination including urinary protein excretion.
- Fundoscopy by ophthalmologist to know any changes of retinopathy.

Keep monitoring blood pressure regularly.
Depending upon blood pressure reading and above test evaluation appropriate decision regarding medications can be taken.

Hope this helps you.
If so do vote as helpful.
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Should I Take Medication Or Change Lifestyle To Reduce BP?

Hi, Thanks for your question. Noted your concern. Considering your age, life style, current level of blood pressure, I may suggest life style modification in the form of- - Smoking cessation. - Regular exercise. - Maintain healthy weight to maintain BMI (Body mass index) less than 25 if possible. - Increase intake of green leafy vegetables, fruits. - Decrease intake of salt and restrict salt containing food like bakery products. There is also need to effect of blood pressure on various body organs for which I may suggest to do- - ECG (Electrocardiogram) of heart. - 2DEcho of heart. - Complete Blood Count. - Kidney Function Test. - Lipid Profile - Urine examination including urinary protein excretion. - Fundoscopy by ophthalmologist to know any changes of retinopathy. Keep monitoring blood pressure regularly. Depending upon blood pressure reading and above test evaluation appropriate decision regarding medications can be taken. Hope this helps you. If so do vote as helpful.