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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #16462
2 days ago
24

normal bp male - #16462

Ira

I am a 34-year-old guy, kinda active but not like super fit or anything. Lately, I've been feeling a bit off, like I get lightheaded sometimes and my heart races for no reason? Went to the doctor last week and they said my blood pressure is a bit high for a normal bp male. He told me it should ideally be around 120/80, but mine was 135/90. I thought I was doing okay, don’t smoke, and not too much caffeine, honestly... I might not eat the healthiest all the time. I keep reading about what normal bp male should be, and now I’m freaking out! Like, am I at risk for heart stuff? My uncle had heart issues young, and it’s weighing on my mind. Could stress be part of it? I work a pretty demanding job. Should I be worried or change my diet? Just feel lost! Also, they mentioned something about taking regular readings to keep an eye on this, but what should I actually look for? Like when is it too high? Should I get a home monitor, or does that even help? Just really trying to understand what normal bp male is supposed to feel like, ya know?

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Doctors’ responses

Considering your situation, your concern regarding your blood pressure readings and the risk factors associated with them is understandable. As a generally healthy 34-year-old, a blood pressure reading of 135/90 mmHg is considered slightly elevated, as you noted. The 120/80 mmHg reading is often cited as the ideal. Regular monitoring of your blood pressure could help identify any patterns or triggers contributing to these elevations. If you can, investing in a validated home BP monitor might be worthwhile, so you can track readings at different times of day. You’re looking to ensure that readings are typically below the 130/80 mmHg mark, especially when at rest. Stress can indeed play a role in elevating blood pressure, and since you mentioned a demanding job, it might be worth exploring stress management techniques like mindfulness, relaxation exercises, or even regular physical activity to manage it. Diet is another factor you might want to adjust. Limiting salt intake, increasing your consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and reducing processed foods can be beneficial in lowering blood pressure. Keep a watch on your caffeine intake too, ensuring it’s not contributing to your symptoms. It’s also important to consider family history, like your uncle’s heart issues. While it doesn’t guarantee you’ll have the same problems, it does mean you should be more vigilant about managing risk factors. Since this is all new and might feel a bit overwhelming, following up with your healthcare provider can ensure you’re on the right track and adjusting medications or lifestyle factors properly.

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