Chronic Health Conditions Discussion and Support

Like I would for any of my friends and family, I can come up with a few points when dealing with a new health issue.

First, blood pressure of 175 is something to take action on. Perhaps take a friend with you to your next visit to be an extra set of ears listening to the pros and cons of each potential med. Can be helpful for reviewing doc's advice. Same goes for bringing in a list of questions/taking notes during the visit.

Taking meds for the rest of your life sucks, I've had to take thyroid meds daily for many years, but it can become okay and routine. And depending on your situation, maybe you won't have to take them long term.

Cortisol and thyroid levels could indicate other causes of hypertension, but kinda not likely (again, yikes, I'm not a doc). If you have a family history of thyroid dysfunction you may want to press for further testing/explanation. I felt I should mention this if your blood pressure went up notably just over the last year.

I'm convinced my increased alcohol intake and stress contributed to an uptick in my various numbers, so I've reeled it in, and lost a little weight... Shall see what my doc says next week.

Finally, I'm on a sleep improvement kick. Poor sleep quality can affect heart health... everything healthwise, really, from what I've been reading in health news in recent years.

I hope this is helpful, and my apologies if I'm just putting out there stuff you already know. Kudos on the exercise!