I have high bp, diagnosed at 28. My mother was diagnosed with it at the same age.
I was having horrible headaches and my vision got worse--at its worst bp was 160/95. I now take bystolic, a beta blocker. The drug choice was right for me because I have a congenital heart defect too, and increased blood pressure is bad for it. I don't care for the beta blocker with exercise, but it helps me to keep the other heart stuff under control so I'm good.

Quote Originally Posted by tulip View Post
It sounds like alot of people here go to the doctor alot. Curious--how often do you go?
oh lord.. I hate thinking about this...
1. rheumatologist once every 4 weeks = ~13 appointments per year
2. pulmonologist = 2 appointments per year
3. cardiologist = 1 appointment per year (more if needed)
4. PCP = 1 for checkup and usually 5 or so more for sinus infections, etc. = ~6 per year
5. OB/GYN = 1 appointment per year
6. dermatologst = 1 appointment per year (more if needed)

yeesh.. so at least 24 appointments a year. that's a depressing number.

BUT, I would need more appointments if I weren't cycling. Cycling has allowed me to exercise despite several chronic health issues. It's also kept me from needing to use my cane or wheelchair in the past 4 years. Exercise changed my life.