Hypertension - How young when you started meds?

[ClarabelleCowFan]

My best friend just got back from the doctor and at the ripe old age of 32 he has been put on blood pressure medicine for life! He is incredibly physically fit but has had a few chest pains (had a few this weekend after riding Mission: Space) and high blood pressure for awhile so he went to the doctor today and they ran a bunch of tests.

32 sounds awfully young to be put on meds for this. Did anyone else have to start taking a daily medication for Hypertension/High Blood Pressure this young?

Any helpful advice on lowering your blood pressure?

 

[suzannen]

Clarabelle,
I can't say about going on at the age of 32, but my mom had a heart attack at age 50 and was put on high blood pressure medication then. She's now 80, so she's been on them for 30 years and still going strong. I hope you get more information from others and that this medication keeps your friend safe and healthy, like my mom.

 

[AllyandJack]

My dad has his 2nd heart attack at 38 and has been on medication since I can remember. Make sure your friend eats right and exercises and doesn't smoke. My father didn't heed any of those warning and, 20 surgeries later, we're thankful he's still alive.

 

[Micca]

I think I was in my mid 30's, about 15 years ago

 

[karebear1]

I was 26 years old- an I'm now 46! Up until a month ago it was only HCTZ (water pill basically) but now I take that and another med.

 

[ClarabelleCowFan]

Thanks! He is pretty upset about being put on meds for life but I told him it was better than the alternative.

 

[sweet angel]

I think I started about a year and a half to two years ago. I'm 39 now. I was pretty upset at first too, but it quickly becomes routine and is definitely better than the alternative.

There are ranges where they will suggest lifestyle changes, but above a certain point, the only way to go is medication. But, of course, even with meds, the lifestyle changes don't hurt!

 

[Serena]

I was on them for a while, then when my h left, my bp went down. lol In the last couple months it's gone up some.

 

[disykat]

35. At the time, I was pretty fit and the Dr. felt like lifestyle changes wouldn't do it with my family history. My brother is on them too. Mine is also a diaretic.

 

[sweet angel]

OP, make sure he pays reads the paperwork that comes with the meds as to side effects, contraindications, etc. I've had to have my meds adjusted a couple times.

 

[huckster]

i was 28

 

[ClarabelleCowFan]

OP, make sure he pays reads the paperwork that comes with the meds as to side effects, contraindications, etc. I've had to have my meds adjusted a couple times.

Will do. Thanks everyone.

 

[PA DISNEYLOVER]

I was 30

 

[nativetxn]

I was 54 when I was put on meds. Age 32 does seem very young.