Unusual Blood Pressure Readings
Hello! To give you some context, I'm an avid athlete, training around 9 times a week for rowing. My sessions often vary between two hours of moderate volume and intense 45-minute workouts. Just this past Wednesday, I had a routine check-up where my blood pressure was recorded at a rather concerning 150/72. Interestingly, my resting heart rate was at 53. There is a history of somewhat elevated blood pressure in both sides of my family, but considering I’m a 17-year-old male who doesn't smoke and maintains a healthy lifestyle at 180 pounds and 6 feet tall, should I be alarmed by this reading?
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 4:00:42 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about your blood pressure reading, especially considering your active lifestyle. A reading of 150/72 is indeed higher than what is typically considered normal for your age and fitness level. However, there are a few important points to consider.
Explanation: Blood pressure consists of two numbers: systolic (the first number, which is 150 in your case) and diastolic (the second number, which is 72). In general, a normal systolic reading is below 120, and diastolic is below 80. Your systolic reading is elevated, which can be concerning since it may indicate your heart is working harder to pump blood.
Factors such as stress, caffeine intake, hydration status, or even the way the blood pressure was measured (e.g., position, time of day) can affect results, particularly as you are very young and physically fit. Your resting heart rate of 53 indicates good cardiovascular fitness, which is commonly seen in athletes.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Take your blood pressure at different times over the next week. Aim for consistent conditions—similar time of day, seated, relaxed state. Keeping a log can help track any patterns.
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Hydration and Diet: Ensure you stay well-hydrated, especially with your intense training schedule. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low in excessive sodium can also help maintain healthy blood pressure.
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Stress Management: Since stress can impact blood pressure, consider integrating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga post-workout to help manage stress levels.
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Limit Stimulants: Be mindful of caffeine and other stimulants in your diet, as these can raise blood pressure temporarily.
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Follow Up: Given your family history and the elevated reading, it may be wise to follow up with a healthcare professional for further evaluation. They may want to monitor your blood pressure over time or perform additional tests to rule out any underlying issues.
By keeping track of your blood pressure and lifestyle factors, you can gain better insight into what's happening and ensure your heart stays healthy as you continue your athletic pursuits. Let me know if you would like to discuss any specific issues or have further questions!
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