Hypertension is a common problem that can occur even in very fit athletes. Lifestyle modifications are the first line of treatment for high blood pressure. If dietary changes, weight loss and exercise do not adequately lower the blood pressure, medications are prescribed.
Lifestyle modification:
1. No smoking
2. Moderate alcohol intake
3. Increase fruits and vegetables
4. Limit salt intake
5. Reduce stress
6. Run regularly and within 120-150 heart rate only. Note you can increase your speed within that range gradually.
Although it is frustrating to exercise regularly and still have an elevated blood pressure, it is often tied to genetic factors that we cannot control. Exercise alone can drop the blood pressure 10 or so mm Hg in most people. Running lifestyle for most recreational runners has postponed the need for medication, but at some point it is better to be on medication than to incur the consequences of persistently elevated blood pressure on the end organs like the blood vessels, heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.
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