Question
Asked by Rachella
My Dad Has A Blood Pressure Of 190/115 And Pulse Of 50 How Dangerous Is This
He refuses to be checked out and also has had a previous massive stroke. I am very worried, is the pulse a consideration when the blood pressure is high for a stroke??
Answer
Hello Rachella,
Yes, your father's blood pressure being so high is concerning. He should see his doctor immediately. Given his history of stroke, having a blood pressure so high puts him at risk of having another one.
The pulse rate does not necessarily factor into the risk for stroke, though, it is much lower than normal (60-100 beats per minute is normal) and should be checked out independantly. This implies your father could have heart damage. His doctor would likely get him an EKG and order lab tests to check his heart function.
If you Dad develops any new signs of a stroke, weakness, headache, decreased urine output, or difficultly breathing, he should go the closest ER immediately.
To you and your Dad's health,
Neil MD