High BP on medical exam

[Matty8378]

Will high blood pressure on my medical disqualify me (140/85)? My resting heart rate was 54. If this is the only find on my medical exam, will it cause concern? I'm anxious about the job and it caused my BP to jump up, its normally much lower. I'm in excellent shape so weight isn't a problem, just wondering if anyone has any insight on this subject. Thanks!

[R1SAlum]

I lost out on 2 jobs in the early 80's because of this. Get to your doctor and ask him for advice in the area of temporary medication or other advice. Find out the cutoff B/P for the job and the NFPA standard. Good luck.

Zeke
DCFD

[Matty8378]

Cant find much info online about this, too vague. Just left the EMS guy at the station a message, hopefully will hear something today. This hiring process is causing the high BP!!!!

[variable1]

I hear you on that. When I did my first physical test my BP was higher on the pre-test, then when I finished with the physical test! Nerves will get you in trouble!!

[BCLepore]

I would encourage you to learn way to settle your nerves. Don't kid yourself.....High blood pressure is an immediate cause for dismissal. You can learn ways to settle your nerves. Learn them now. Try Yoga, meditation or whatever you can do to help you relax.

Good luck in your endeavors. You absolutely can beat this.

Paul Lepore
Battalion Chief

[smokeNphyer]

First question I have to ask is....

Do you smoke?

Also, I wouldn't put what you weigh and what your bp is in the same sentence.

Skinny people have heart attacks all the time. Being in good shape is "relative".

About 3/4 guys would say they're in "good shape". Realistically, about 2/10 guys are actually "in shape".

Here's a good link on the "average man".

http://www.pipeline.com/~dada3zen/average.htm

[Matty8378]

No I dont smoke, never have. Its just the nerves, had my bp checked by a friend today who is an RN and it was 120/72. The chief also said if it becomes an issue they will retake my pressure. I was shocked at the medical exam to see the 140/85.

[dmfireschool]

Before you take your next B/P try taking 8 deep breaths. Inhale slowly and then exhale slowly. This should relax you. Good luck.


www.fireprep.com
www.fireEMTParamedic.com

[Matty8378]

Thanks, Ill have to try that one. Hopefully Ill be OK anyway, looks like most disqualify for anything 140/90 or above. My systolic was 85. Ill post what happens when I get the call from the chief. Thanks for the tip.