Bad hypochondriac

So here is my story it’s good tell people sometimes. After the passing off my step sister about 3 years ago I developed a strong health anxiety of my heart. Had a panic attack thought it was the end got rushed to the er got ekg blood tests chest X-ray all of that stuff. Doctor said I’m good nothing is wrong. Finally got over it fast forward 3 years today. something triggered me. Probably because I just turned 26 and my health insurance is taking 3 months to change over. But yeah I started feeling anxious and tense so I decided to take my blood pressure which is a bad idea. Since I’ve always and a slight fear of blood pressure regardless. I did it didn’t get the reading I wanted freaked out thinking I was gunna die again. Called my sister who’s an RN tells me to chill out your blood pressure literally varies from hour to hour based on what you eat hydration etc etc. she also said the home ones are as much to 15% inaccurate. Plus you release stress horemones that spike it when anxious. Even after all she was saying of course I still believe I developed high blood pressure at the age of 26 so I’ve been barley eating just eating salads and drinking water. I bought krill oil because I heard it’s really good for your heart. Then I have 2nd thought of taking it thinking it might have the opposite effect. I’m just all over the place and it sucks. Any tips?

Scaredy Cat said...
Hi Nolan and welcome.

I am very sorry to hear of your sister's passing. Of course this can be a trigger for health anxiety...know that you are not alone with this experience.

Have you tried either medication or therapy to manage the issue? I know you mentioned you don't have coverage at this time, but you may want to consider these options as part of your recovery plan once your insurance kicks in.

For now, please check out our Resources at the top of the main forum page here for great material to work with right away. We even have links specifically for health anxiety...as well as general Stress Relieving Exercises.

Also, try to avoid taking your BP at this time. With your heightened sense of anxiety...repeated testing will only drive those numbers up...perpetuating your worries. Remember most people only get theirs checked every 6 months to a year, not daily...and yes, there are times of fluctuations in there that are harmless.

Keep posting with us as well if you find it helpful. We care, understand and support is key!

Talk soon,

Scaredy Cat

Well scardey cat I broke down like most people with health Anxiety i took my blood pressure again. And of course I had another anxiety attack. All I did was worry myself more I took my blood pressure on both arms saw a difference. Looked up and of course it said I have artery problems. Then out of no where my heart rate and blood pressure suddenly dropped and I became very fuzzy and colder. I know anxiety can do crazy things I’m trying to not freak out. Should of took your advice

Anxiety can amp up your blood pressure in a matter of minutes, and calming your mind can lower it in an equally quick timeframe.

My BP is always higher when I am stressed or at the doc (white coat fever), say 145 / 90 or more. At home when I’m relaxed it will go down to like 110 / 75. Blood pressure is more a concern for extended high periods over years rather than in acute situations.

I definitely think your anxiety makes it high when you take readings; it’s likely normal when you are calm and not thinking about it.