Should You See a Doctor for Elevated Blood Pressure and Heart Rate?

Q: Should You See a Doctor for Elevated Blood Pressure and Heart Rate?

The response to the user's question is as follows： <br>1. <br>It is speculated that the user is a young woman, but we do not know her weight, height, or BMI. <br>BMI is calculated as weight (in kilograms) divided by height (in meters) squared. <br>In Taiwan, a normal BMI for adul

Should I see a doctor if my blood pressure and heart rate are elevated?

Hello doctor, I have been recording my blood pressure and heart rate every morning before getting up, and I have been trying to lose weight recently.
However, my weight hasn’t changed in a month, so this week (11/25-12/01) I used a more extreme approach: I avoided carbohydrates for the entire week and consumed about 1450 calories daily along with exercise.
On the seventh day, I fasted for about 30 hours without eating or drinking water (but I was too hungry to sleep, so I interrupted the fast with milk and a banana, totaling about 400 calories).
It seems that many people online are trying this method, but I definitely won’t try it again.
During the last fasting period (11/30-12/01), I felt particularly unwell:
1.
I felt extremely hungry all day, to the point where my stomach felt like it was touching my back, and I couldn’t sleep at night due to hunger.
2.
I noticed my body was heating up in the middle of the night, and I felt better after drinking warm milk and banana.
3.
I developed a large itchy red rash on my chest that resembled hives; a dermatologist said it was an allergic reaction.
4.
I felt somewhat weak, more fatigued while doing tasks, and my reactions were slower.
5.
My blood pressure was 20 points higher than usual, and my resting heart rate increased by 10 beats (sometimes my heart rate increases with more exercise, but not as much as this time).
6.
I felt my heart beating and a slight tightness in my chest (I had this sensation before rapid weight loss, and it didn’t seem to affect anything; it felt like I was just overly anxious).
I’ve heard that avoiding carbohydrates and fasting can lead to kidney failure or heart failure, and that kidney failure can be asymptomatic.
On that day, my resting heart rate was 70 with elevated blood pressure.
After resuming my diet and taking the dermatologist's medication, I have gradually improved, and I currently do not have any obvious symptoms.
However, I feel a bit worried and still feel somewhat fatigued when exercising.
I would like to ask the doctor if these symptoms could just be allergic reactions, and whether I need to see a cardiologist or nephrologist.
Thank you!
Here are my usual morning records; I measure more frequently when the numbers are not good:
10/30 Morning 99/67/60
10/31 Morning 104/68/58
11/01 Morning 102/68/62
11/02 Morning 105/61/56
11/03 Morning 97/57/58
11/04 Morning 97/63/58
11/05 Morning 95/65/56
11/08 Morning 94/56/57
11/09 Morning 99/64/55
11/15 Morning 101/63/59
11/16 Morning 100/61/64 Second measurement 97/59/60
11/17 Morning 102/63/58
11/21 Morning 89/62/56 Second measurement 108/61/57
11/22 Morning 97/60/61
11/24 Morning 95/66/62
11/27 Morning 103/61/63
11/28 Morning 107/55/66 Second measurement 106/64/61
11/30 Morning 96/57/65 Second measurement 93/52/63 Evening 105/57/67
12/01 Morning 117/72/68 Afternoon 110/70/69 118/69/72 118/61/69 Evening 104/72/59
12/02 Morning 105/72/61 Second measurement 103/65/56 Afternoon 111/73/67 Evening 99/65/54
12/03 Morning 98/57/58 Afternoon 97/60/68
12/04 Morning 97/62/53 Afternoon 96/52/60

lee, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/04

Dr. Bai Xiyan reply Cardiology

The response to the user's question is as follows:
1.
It is speculated that the user is a young woman, but we do not know her weight, height, or BMI.
BMI is calculated as weight (in kilograms) divided by height (in meters) squared.
In Taiwan, a normal BMI for adults is generally between 18-24.
A BMI of 24-27 is considered overweight, and a BMI above 27 is classified as obese.
Weight is influenced by genetics, diet, and exercise, and obesity is associated with chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia.
If someone is overweight or obese, lifestyle modifications are necessary to prevent cardiovascular diseases.
However, intentional fasting or improper weight loss methods can be harmful to health.
It is recommended to consult a physician or a registered dietitian, as many weight loss products or secret remedies available in the market may be misleading.
2.
The recorded blood pressure and heart rate appear to be normal.
If one can maintain a balanced diet with low salt, low sugar, and low-fat intake, along with regular exercise and adequate sleep, I believe tomorrow will be better.
If you need to see a doctor or seek consultation, the medical staff at Chiayi Hospital will be dedicated to serving you!

Reply Date: 2018/12/04

More Info

Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing elevated blood pressure and heart rate, particularly during a period of extreme dieting and fasting. It's important to understand the potential implications of these symptoms and when to seek medical attention.

Firstly, your approach to weight loss—eliminating carbohydrates and significantly reducing caloric intake—can lead to various physiological responses. While some individuals may find success with low-carb diets, extreme caloric restriction and fasting can cause stress on the body, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. These changes occur as your body reacts to perceived starvation, activating stress hormones like cortisol, which can raise blood pressure and heart rate.

The symptoms you described, including feeling excessively hungry, experiencing heat sensations, and developing a rash, may indicate that your body is under significant stress. The rash could be an allergic reaction or a response to dietary changes, while the increased heart rate and blood pressure could be linked to stress or anxiety about your health and weight loss efforts.

Regarding your blood pressure readings, it appears that your systolic blood pressure has been fluctuating, with some readings indicating elevated levels. Normal blood pressure is typically considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. A consistent elevation, particularly if your readings are significantly above this range, could indicate hypertension, which requires monitoring and potentially lifestyle changes or medical intervention.

Given your history of elevated blood pressure and heart rate, along with the symptoms you experienced during fasting, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider. A visit to a cardiologist may be warranted to assess your heart health, especially if you continue to experience elevated heart rates or blood pressure. They can perform tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram to evaluate your heart's function and rule out any underlying conditions.

Additionally, a consultation with a nephrologist (kidney specialist) could be beneficial, particularly if you have concerns about kidney function related to your dietary practices. Extreme dieting can sometimes lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which can affect kidney health.

In the meantime, consider the following recommendations:
1. Reassess Your Diet: Instead of extreme caloric restriction, aim for a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients. Gradual weight loss is generally more sustainable and healthier.

2. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking enough water, especially if you are exercising. Dehydration can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure.

3. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a record of your blood pressure and heart rate, along with any symptoms you experience. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

4. Manage Stress: Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your routine. Stress management can help lower blood pressure and heart rate.

5. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given your symptoms and recent changes in your health, it’s advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide personalized recommendations and determine if further evaluation is necessary.

In summary, while some fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate can be normal, particularly during periods of dietary change, persistent elevations and accompanying symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Taking proactive steps to manage your health and seeking guidance can help you achieve your weight loss goals safely and effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding High Pulse Rate and Blood Pressure: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello doctor, I am 19 years old. This morning, I checked my heart rate with a Xiaomi band, and it was consistently above 100, even reaching 120 to 130. I just measured my blood pressure at the pharmacy, and it was 143/61. I understand that it could be due to anxiety and stress ca...

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
It is recommended to adjust your daily routine and engage in regular exercise. However, if symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a hospital for an electrocardiogram (ECG) examination.

Understanding Elevated Blood Pressure: When to See a Cardiologist

Hello, Doctor He: I have mild ventricular premature contractions, and my usual heart rate is between 58-62 beats per minute. My blood pressure has been around 60-90 for decades. Recently, my blood pressure has risen to 139-89. My face often feels warm, and I have a slight headach...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, a blood pressure reading of 139/89 does not necessarily indicate hypertension, and it may not be related to blood pressure. I have reservations about taking medication like Pulse Care, which is why I haven't taken it for long. The heart pain extending to the armpit an...

Should You Seek Medical Attention for High Pulse and Chest Pain?

Hello doctor, every time I visit the hospital for treatment, I also measure my blood pressure and pulse. I have measured my pulse four times, with a minimum of 95 and a maximum of 110, while the other two readings were 102 and 105. My blood pressure has been normal. Occasionally,...

Dr. Chen Guifeng reply Cardiology
A normal heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. Factors such as stress or anxiety can cause an increase in heart rate. If there are additional symptoms, seek medical attention.

Rapid Heartbeat and Breathing Issues: What You Need to Know

Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been feeling a bit of shortness of breath and have to take deep breaths. After visiting a clinic, I found out that both my blood pressure and heart rate were unexpectedly high, with my heart rate around 120 bpm. However, I usually don't hav...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: It is recommended to consult a cardiologist for related issues. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.