Medical Questions » Blood Pressure Questions » Question No. 145
| Question: | I am a very fit, healthy and normal weight 32 year old, but my doctor wants to start me on treatment for high blood pressure. Why? |
| Answer: | Unfortunately, hypertension (high blood pressure) does not always respect youth or fitness, although these factors certainly help. 80% of people with hypertension have no specific cause for the condition, although it does tend to run in families. If a high level of blood pressure is found on several occasions, tests will be done to exclude any specific cause, and if none can be found, it is necessary to start treatment to control the pressure level of the blood.
This treatment must be continued for many years, as it does not cure the condition, but controls it only while the medication is taken. It is important to control the blood pressure adequately, despite the fact that you may have no symptoms now, because a high level for many years will greatly increase your risk of strokes and heart attacks. The only things that you can do to help the situation are keep your weight at a reasonable level, avoid salt and stop smoking. |
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