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What Causes Unusual Blood Pressure Level?

Posted on Sat, 5 Jul 2014

Question: I am afraid because my blood pressure is 120 over 98...my diastolic pressure remains high when my top number is low or normal.

Answered by Dr. Kerry Pottinger (30 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Ensure accurate measurement of blood pressure.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic. The figures you give for your blood pressure appear a little unusual. There would normally be a greater difference between the two figures even in the presence of high blood pressure. Also, the top figure never goes below the bottom figure which is what you mentioned has happened on occasion. Therefore, I suspect the method of measuring your blood pressure may be inaccurate at times. Before making any decisions regarding the effectiveness of your treatment, I suggest you see your doctor for accurate blood pressure monitoring. Perhaps a 24 hour assessment should be considered.
I hope this is of help. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB. FRCA.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Kerry Pottinger (2 hours later)

I can assure you that my blood pressure monitor is the most expensive monitor that Walgreens has to offer and is indeed very accurate (has large numbers a voice reading an electronic pump and normal size cuff. When I go to the doctor's office the results do match. The blood pressure reading this morning of 120 over 98 was indeed my blood pressure. Can you please answer the question and advise me of what the result may be an indication of please. Thank you. I did not pay money for someone to advise me to find another blood pressure monitor. Also the one time the number was almost as close as the bottom was the time I 1st began taking the medication it was 107 /100. The doctor told me to discontinue and come back which I did and they informed me there really isn't any med to lower the diastolic. I then noticed that taking a half dose would lower the top number to normal and the diastolic remains fairly high and sometimes goes down to 82 after some physical exertion.

Follow up: Dr. Kerry Pottinger (2 minutes later)

By the was I am 5"6 " 165 lbs

Answered by Dr. Kerry Pottinger (59 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Suggest an echo.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
If there is only a small difference between the higher (systolic) and lower figure (diastolic) and the higher figure is either not raised or only marginally raised, this could indicate a narrow aortic valve called aortic stenosis. This occurs in approximately 2% of people of your age. It can be completely asymptomatic only causing symptoms when severe. EKG may be essentially normal. The diagnosis is confirmed with a heart scan or echo.
Therefore, I suggest you consider a consultation with a cardiologist.
I hope this answers your question.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Kerry Pottinger (47 minutes later)

Thank you!!

Answered by Dr. Kerry Pottinger (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Thank you.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I hope I have answered your questions satisfactorily. If I can be of further help please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar