AboutWilliam B. Jeffries, Ph.D. Expertise Questions on the mechanism of action and side effects of antihypertensive drugs, the epidemiology of hypertension and the cardiovascular complications of untreated or undertreated high blood pressure
Experience I have been an investigator in the field of hypertension research for over 20 years.
Organizations Council for High Blood Pressure Research
American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
American Heart Association
Publications Hypertension, Journal of Hypertension, Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Molecular Pharmacology, American Journal of Physiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics of Dentistry
Question Hello,
My father has found out today that he has high blood pressure. He is 47 years old and I was surprised to hear that his blood pressure read 160/110 when he came back from the doctor. This was just a physical exam and he does not have any symptoms. He used to consume quite a bit of alcohol but has stopped drinking completely about a year ago. He is about 40 lbs overweight and he does consume more then the recommended dose of sodium per day. I was wondering if you could give me some advice on how he can best bring his blood pressure down without the use of medication (if that is possible). Also, is it still okay for him to do aerobic exercise such as running and tennis? I am concerned about him at this point because I do not know if his blood pressure is reaching dangerous levels.
Any help on this issue would be very much appreciated.
Thank you,
Olga
Answer 160/110 is stage II hypertension. It usually requires drug therapy (often several drugs) to get it under control. The best way for someone to reduce their blood pressure is to change their lifestyle. This can reduce the number and dosage of drugs needed to control hypertension. Among the lifestyle changes:
- reduce body weight. Obesity produces hypertension and lowering weight is the best way to lower blood pressure.
- reduce salt intake. Lowering salt consumption to less than 2 grams/day lowers blood pressure in most people.
- increase potassium consumption. A diet high in fruits and vegetables lowers blood pressure.
- increase calcium consumption. Nonfat dairy foods, like skim milk are the best source.
- reduce consumption of sweets.
- stop smoking. Overall, this is the worst thing you can do to yourself.
- limit alcohol consumption. More than 2 drinks per day increases blood pressure.
- exercise. aerobic fitness lowers blood pressure and resting heart rate.
Your father's doctor should have developed a plan to deal with the hypertension. An increase in exercise should be cleared by his doctor, but usually it is restricted only in the face of heart failure or another medical condition. Good luck!
