Last week, I had my first complete physical exam in twenty years. I figured that, because I'm 40, I ought to get one. I was wondering what problems they might find.
EKG, heart sounds, lungs, reflexes, and everything were fine. However, my blood pressure was high. It was also high when I had my aviation exam, and both my parents have high blood pressure, so I finally had to accept the fact that I have a problem that probably can't be solved with rest, exercise, and a good diet. The doctor prescribed a daily dosage of blood pressure control medication.
Medication. In one sense, it's no big deal; lots of people are on medication. But, for the first time, I've been prescribed a daily dosage that I'll probably have to take for the rest of my life.
Does this make me officially middle-aged?
UPDATE: This means that if I want to fly again, I'll have to get cleared by the FAA medical staff again, which is a 4-to-6-week procedure. My medication is one that is approved by the FAA, but they review such things on a case-by-case basis.