I did a search on hypertension on this site so it seems like I'm am not alone here and there is quite a resource to draw from. So perhaps I can get some idea what I am looking at with my situation.
I'm only 34, started swimming again nearly a year ago. Partly because I new I had high blood pressure, but mostly I started swimming for overall health and fitness benifits. Since then I have lost roughly 30 pounds. At 6'2" I now weigh about 200 pounds. I would expect that all this work would have some impact on my blood pressure. Especially since I rarely drink, and my diet isn't terrible. I generally eat healthy meals. But the sad truth is that it hasn't changed. Nearly a year ago my BP was 140 over 100. This week... The same. Absolutely no change!!! As a result, my doctor put me on Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor. So naturally I concerned about a few things.
1. Does this mean I will be taking BP medication for the rest of my life?
2. How will this impact my swimming/ability to train? is there a better medication that I should ask about so there are not adverse effects?
3. Do I need to start taking things easier in the pool?
4. Since I have a family history of hypertension does this mean there is really nothing I can do aside from medication?
5. Anything else I need to be concerned about?
Thanks in advance for any advice or helpful comments.
Kevin
I forgot to mention, that before I ever got started on any blood pressure medication, the doctor first prescribed a blood pressure cup machine. It isn't too complicated to use, just put on the cuff, push a button, and wait.
Some people even say to bring your own machine to the doctor's office to see how the drive there and the anxiety of being in the doctor's office affects your blood pressure.
I usually take a few readings a week. The doctor said to take them at a variety of times, but to note the date and time I take it, since it will vary (sometimes considerably) throughout the day.
I also use blood pressure machines when I'm out and see one, such as at a supermarket, Wal-Mart, etc. Different machines have different levels of accuracy, but if you average them all, it should work out in the end.
I forgot to mention, that before I ever got started on any blood pressure medication, the doctor first prescribed a blood pressure cup machine. It isn't too complicated to use, just put on the cuff, push a button, and wait.
Some people even say to bring your own machine to the doctor's office to see how the drive there and the anxiety of being in the doctor's office affects your blood pressure.
I usually take a few readings a week. The doctor said to take them at a variety of times, but to note the date and time I take it, since it will vary (sometimes considerably) throughout the day.
I also use blood pressure machines when I'm out and see one, such as at a supermarket, Wal-Mart, etc. Different machines have different levels of accuracy, but if you average them all, it should work out in the end.
