Dear doctor;

I have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and have been told I have had it for four years. I am not overweight, I do not smoke and I eat healthily. I have an outside active job. I seem to be doing all the right things, so how come I have high blood pressure?

Damus.

Dear Damus,

High blood pressure does occur due to obesity, smoking, consuming alcohol and fatty food. But it also occurs due to physical and mental stress and hereditary factors. If somebody among your blood relatives has high blood pressure, you are also at risk to acquire it.

There is nothing to worry. Continue to do the right things and take medicines regularly  if prescribed to lower the high blood pressure. In addition learn to relax completely both physically and mentally and you would be alright.