Pre-emptive hypertension management

[NanLaew]

I just renewed my medical certificate for working offshore and was quite pleased that my 'white coat syndrome' didn't manifest itself and the single BP test was good. Typically, I would need a second test during the exam to counter the low-to-mid level hypertension indicated in the initial test. The first time this became an issue was maybe about 10-12 years ago just after I had turned 50 and surprised both myself and the doctor during a similar work medical exam (no previous BP issues noted). Since then, I have invested in a good quality cuff-type monitor and check my BP daily when at home and it's generally 130-ish over 80-ish which is Stage-1 hypertension but apparently close to 'normal for my age'. My BMI-indicates I am middle of the Overweight band, I (maybe lose 10 kg on BMI math but at 6' 4", I think that may be excessive), I exercise moderately, watch what I eat and the alcohol consumption gets lower year-on-year. A good thing I find at work is the increasingly pro-active approach by clients and contractors to have work-site medics conduct regular BP checks on all employees. Most times mine is normal but occasionally, there may be a 'spike' reading. The highest BP I ever had recorded was during a supervised stress test (treadmill) while doing a 'full-serve' annual medical at a private hospital as part of my own health screening initiative. Even after one of my extended bike rides, I have never gotten close to that elevated number.

 

Reading about 'white coat syndrome', there's some that suggest it could be a precursor to a more consistent, serious hypertension issue which, as I age, doesn't seem too much of a stretch. Beyond diet and exercise and excluding prescription medication, I am wondering what other members may be taking to keep things closer to normal as they age gracefully. Homeopathic or herbal or other supplements? Anyone have a particular fruit or vegetable that works for them? I know there's plenty stuff to google up but first-hand experience, advice and recommendation is also good. There was an older guy getting a health check and was getting his vital signs checked while I was doing my eyesight tests. His BP was 117 over 76 for which I congratulated him but I never asked if he was on medication or just doing well naturally. He was slimmer than me though.

 

Thanks!

NL

Edited November 12, 2019 by NanLaew

[scotsman]

I have the same white coat syndrome as my blood pressure on many occasions is when I have just come of a motor bike or in one of the very scary bus vans and my tests have been from 145/75 or 160/80.  When I bought myself a good monitor my tests at home have been 107/75 to 115/80 at aged 64 I think it's very good.  Now I just bought a supplement that may help and I add it to my daily shake beetroot powder i add 1 teaspoon.

Regards 

Scotsman    

[samuttodd]

mine was 180/120 the other day,   That was a fright.    I've doubled up on Lisinopril and now I am 138/75.

Edited November 19, 2019 by samuttodd

[NanLaew]

On 11/12/2019 at 4:06 PM, scotsman said:

I have the same white coat syndrome as my blood pressure on many occasions is when I have just come of a motor bike or in one of the very scary bus vans and my tests have been from 145/75 or 160/80.  When I bought myself a good monitor my tests at home have been 107/75 to 115/80 at aged 64 I think it's very good.  Now I just bought a supplement that may help and I add it to my daily shake beetroot powder i add 1 teaspoon.

Regards 

Scotsman    

Is the beetroot powder supplement working?