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Anxiety and high blood pressure

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Posted 2/26/2015 4:02 PM (GMT 0)
Hi all

I am new to this site and I have a question but first, I have been dealing with anxiety issues for 4 years now since I had my baby. It was horrible, to date I am still struggling. Can anyone help me with this question please.

Question
My bp keeps going up and down because i have a fear each time I am being tested. 130/90, 140/90 and 145/90 each time it goes back to normal after but is this happening to anyone else?

I am frustrated and feeling ill at the moment. I see a Naturopathic doctor for my anxiety.
Posted 2/26/2015 4:22 PM (GMT 0)
Yup, I do this too. Now I will say my thyroid is playing games with my bp lately, but because of high bp readings during an attack and a faulty monitor, everytime I get tested I get nervous and its usually around your numbers. Just the other night I had really calm moment and though I didnt check my bp, I did check my resting pulse which has been hovering around 80-90. When I felt calm the other night....62 bpm. Anxiety can really mess with your bp and pulse.
Posted 2/26/2015 5:16 PM (GMT 0)
Hi drene and welcome!

I am sorry to hear of this worry regarding your BP...

I understand how this feels, as I had pre-eclampsia and high blood pressure with both of my pregnancies.

The more they would take it...the more nervous I would get about a high reading...and up the numbers would go!

Do you take readings at home with a monitor?

If not, investing in one may be a good idea. In this way, you can become "friends with the cuff."

Taking your BP daily at home, (not more than once or twice though so you don't become obsessed with getting a 'perfect' reading) could get you over the fear of having it taken with your doctor.

Try to keep in mind also that spikes happen....and yours are not even all that high.

It is the overall average that really counts when considering BP.

Also, exercise and nutritional/lifestyle changes can be made to ensure the best possible cardio health and BP management.:)

Wishing you the best, and inviting you to post with us anytime for anxiety support!

Scaredy Cat
Posted 2/26/2015 7:14 PM (GMT 0)
Drene,

Yes, happens to me nearly every time! I just kind of laugh at myself now because I know what's going on. Happens at the doctors office and with my at-home blood pressure monitor. If you feel nervous it will most certainly affect your blood pressure reading. I once had so much anxiety a hospital refused to draw my blood because I would have to sign too much paperwork! I felt so ridiculous. However, I have normal-low blood pressure when my anxiety is at bay.

From what I know your anxiety does not have negative consequences concerning the fluctuations in blood pressure/heart rate.

Be sure not to over-check your BP, it can mess with the readings :) as Scaredy said yours are all within normal range anyway!
Posted 2/26/2015 9:58 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks guys...

I am a worry bug when it comes to my bp, I think about it too much once its elevated then it goes higher.

I am trying to keep calm and I did some walking today.
Posted 2/27/2015 1:25 AM (GMT 0)
Prior to having your blood pressure taken, close your eyes and find your "happy place". It may help and may distract you.
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