High Blood Pressure: Can Anxiety Affect Your Readings?

Q: High Blood Pressure: Can Anxiety Affect Your Readings?

Hello, Ahsin netizen： The causes of hypertension are primarily classified as essential hypertension, which accounts for over 90% of cases and may be related to genetics. <br>The remaining 5-10% is secondary hypertension, which can be identified and treated. <br>Blood pressure is

How to determine if someone has hypertension?

I am a thin person, do not smoke or drink, and I consider myself someone who easily gets nervous and creates stress for myself.
Three years ago, during a military service physical examination, my blood pressure was measured with an electronic sphygmomanometer and showed elevated levels (systolic pressure around 150).
Since then, I have occasionally measured my blood pressure, mostly using electronic devices provided in banks or public places, which often show high readings (sometimes systolic pressure even reaching 150).
After that, I didn't want to pay much attention to it, but this issue has always cast a shadow over me.
Recently, I started measuring my blood pressure regularly at school using a mercury sphygmomanometer, typically between 9:30 and 10:30 in the morning.
I have been doing this for about six days, and the readings have been normal (systolic pressure around 108-120).
However, just last night after dinner, when I took my mom to the hospital, I felt my face getting warm and my cheeks slightly flushed, and the hospital's electronic sphygmomanometer showed a reading of 153/86.
This has made me worry again about fluctuations in my blood pressure.
So, I would like to ask: can anxiety cause such a significant increase in blood pressure? How can I determine if I have hypertension? P.S.: The reason I haven't seen a doctor is that just thinking about measuring my blood pressure makes me a bit nervous...

Ahsin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/11/25

Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology

Hello, Ahsin netizen: The causes of hypertension are primarily classified as essential hypertension, which accounts for over 90% of cases and may be related to genetics.
The remaining 5-10% is secondary hypertension, which can be identified and treated.
Blood pressure is influenced by diet, weight, emotions, and climate; stress can lead to elevated blood pressure.
It is recommended to first visit a cardiology clinic for further evaluation, while also practicing self-management, including weight control, regular exercise, reduced salt and oil intake, and maintaining a regular lifestyle.
These measures can help stabilize blood pressure.
Dr.
Chung Yu-Hsuan

Reply Date: 2003/11/25

More Info

Anxiety can indeed have a significant impact on blood pressure readings, and your experience is not uncommon. When you feel anxious or stressed, your body enters a "fight or flight" response, which can lead to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. This physiological reaction is mediated by the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare your body to respond to perceived threats.
In your case, it seems that your blood pressure readings fluctuate significantly depending on your emotional state. You mentioned that during routine checks at home, your blood pressure readings are generally normal, but they spike when you are in a stressful environment, such as a hospital. This phenomenon is often referred to as "white coat syndrome," where patients experience elevated blood pressure readings in clinical settings due to anxiety about the medical environment or the act of having their blood pressure measured.

To determine whether you have high blood pressure (hypertension), it's essential to consider multiple readings taken over time rather than relying on a single measurement, especially one taken in a stressful situation. The American Heart Association defines hypertension as having a consistent systolic blood pressure (the top number) of 130 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) of 80 mmHg or higher. Since your home readings are mostly normal, it may suggest that your elevated readings in the hospital are more related to anxiety than to a chronic condition.

To manage your anxiety and its effects on your blood pressure, consider the following strategies:
1. Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate practices such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine. These can help reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure over time.

2. Regular Monitoring: Continue to monitor your blood pressure at home using a reliable device. This will help you understand your baseline readings and identify patterns related to anxiety.

3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise is an effective way to reduce anxiety and improve overall cardiovascular health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week.

4. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintain a balanced diet low in sodium and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, as these can exacerbate anxiety and affect blood pressure.

5. Seek Professional Help: If your anxiety continues to interfere with your daily life or if you have concerns about your blood pressure, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance, support, and possibly recommend therapy or medication if necessary.

6. Gradual Exposure: If the thought of visiting a doctor makes you anxious, consider gradually exposing yourself to the environment. You might start by visiting the clinic for non-medical reasons, such as accompanying a friend, to help desensitize yourself to the setting.

In conclusion, while anxiety can lead to temporary spikes in blood pressure, it is essential to assess your blood pressure over time and in various situations to get an accurate picture of your cardiovascular health. By implementing stress-reduction techniques and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can help manage both your anxiety and your blood pressure effectively. If you continue to have concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and support.

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