Unusual Symptoms of Hypertension: Your Health Concerns

Unusual Symptoms of Hypertension

Hello, I have a question regarding hypertension.
My mother is 60 years old and started showing symptoms of high blood pressure last year.
It recurred again before the Lunar New Year this year.
She had been controlling it with Western medication, but due to concerns about potential side effects from overuse, she began seeking assistance from traditional Chinese medicine two weeks ago.
Overall, her condition has been manageable.
However, my mother exhibits some unusual symptoms related to her hypertension, and neither Western nor Chinese medicine has provided satisfactory answers.

Firstly, whenever she measures her blood pressure upon waking up, it tends to be elevated (130/160), and the same occurs after her afternoon nap.
A Western doctor once mentioned that this situation is contrary to what is typically observed in most individuals.

Secondly, during episodes of high blood pressure, she experiences tightness in her head and hands, which causes her significant discomfort.

Thirdly, when she washes dishes and her hands come into contact with cold water, it triggers her high blood pressure, leading to immediate tightness in her head and hands.
She even had to be taken to the hospital tonight because of this.
I hope you can take the time to address these three concerns.
I would be very grateful.

Sincerely,
Student Hong

Hong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/02/27

Dr. Zeng Fenyu reply Internal Medicine

1.
The three situations mentioned above are unrelated to chronic hypertension.

2.
The primary cause has not been identified; what you mentioned could also be a vascular disease that requires further examination.

3.
In terms of diagnosis, there are two conditions present, but only one has been identified and treated, while the other remains untreated.

- Dr.
Feng Chih-Ying, Cardiologist

Reply Date: 2001/02/27

More Info

Hello, 洪同學. Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your mother's hypertension and the unusual symptoms she is experiencing. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can manifest in various ways, and it’s essential to understand the underlying factors that may contribute to these symptoms.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that blood pressure can fluctuate throughout the day and can be influenced by numerous factors, including stress, sleep quality, and even the environment. Your mother’s experience of elevated blood pressure readings upon waking and after napping is not entirely uncommon. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors:
1. Nocturnal Hypertension: Some individuals experience higher blood pressure during the night or upon waking, a condition known as nocturnal hypertension. This can be due to various reasons, including sleep apnea, which is common in older adults and can lead to increased blood pressure during sleep.

2. Morning Surge: It is also known that blood pressure tends to rise in the morning due to the body's natural circadian rhythm. This is often referred to as the "morning surge" and can be exacerbated by factors such as anxiety or stress upon waking.

3. Physiological Response: The tightness in her head and hands, especially when exposed to cold water, could be a physiological response to stress or anxiety. Cold exposure can lead to vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), which can temporarily raise blood pressure and cause discomfort.

Regarding her symptoms of tightness in the head and hands during episodes of high blood pressure, this could be related to increased muscle tension or anxiety, which often accompanies hypertension. The sensation of tightness may also be a result of increased sympathetic nervous system activity, which can occur during stressful situations or physical exertion.

It’s crucial to monitor her blood pressure regularly and maintain a record of her readings, especially during these episodes. If her blood pressure consistently remains high, particularly with readings like 130/160, it may warrant further investigation. Persistent hypertension can lead to serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

In terms of treatment, it’s understandable that your mother is concerned about the side effects of Western medications. However, it’s essential to have a balanced approach. While traditional Chinese medicine can be beneficial for some, it’s important to ensure that her hypertension is adequately managed. A consultation with a healthcare provider who understands both Western and Eastern medicine could provide a more comprehensive treatment plan.

Here are some recommendations for managing her condition:
1. Lifestyle Modifications: Encourage her to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle. This includes a balanced diet low in sodium, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.

2. Regular Monitoring: Keep a close eye on her blood pressure readings at different times of the day and under various conditions. This information can be invaluable for her healthcare provider.

3. Consult a Specialist: If her symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting a cardiologist or a hypertension specialist. They can provide tailored advice and may suggest further tests to rule out underlying conditions.

4. Medication Review: If she is currently on medication, it may be worth discussing with her doctor whether adjustments are needed, especially if she is experiencing side effects or if her blood pressure remains uncontrolled.

In conclusion, while your mother’s symptoms may seem unusual, they can often be explained by physiological responses to stress, sleep patterns, and environmental factors. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with her healthcare providers to ensure her hypertension is managed effectively. Thank you for your inquiry, and I hope this information helps you and your mother navigate her health concerns.

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