Understanding and Managing Blood Pressure Surges: Common Causes and Next Steps

It can be alarming to see a sudden spike in your blood pressure readings. In the past, a healthy blood pressure of 120/80 turned into 160/100 in just two months, and a friend's blood pressure shot up to 145 systolic after watching a fight scene in Rocky. These incidents highlight the importance of understanding the factors that can contribute to blood pressure fluctuations and what steps you can take to ensure accurate and reliable readings.

Common Causes of Blood Pressure Spikes

Several factors can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure, including:

Stress: A stressful situation, such as watching a movie or a fight scene, can trigger a temporary increase in blood pressure. Stress releases hormones like adrenaline, which can raise your blood pressure. Elevated Emotions: excitement, anger, or anxiety can all contribute to a rise in blood pressure. Traumatic Events: sudden, intense events like car accidents or falls can temporarily elevate blood pressure. Temperature Changes: extreme heat or cold can affect blood pressure readings.

Home Blood Pressure Monitoring: Accuracy and Recommendations

Using home blood pressure machines, such as wrist monitors, can provide convenience but may not always offer the most accurate readings. These devices can sometimes produce readings that are higher or lower than the actual blood pressure. It is crucial to ensure that your device is properly calibrated and validated. Here are some recommendations:

Contact a Pharmacist or Nurse: For accurate and reliable readings, it is advisable to have your blood pressure checked by a healthcare professional such as a pharmacist or nurse. Repeat Measurements: A single high reading may be a one-off anomaly. It is important to take multiple readings over several days to establish a trend. Measure blood pressure in sets of three, disregarding the first measurement, and take readings twice or thrice a day. Validated Devices: Ensure that your blood pressure measuring device is validated and on the list of approved devices. An incorrect device can lead to unreliable readings.

By following these guidelines, you can obtain a more accurate picture of your blood pressure and avoid false alarms.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you notice a persistent trend of elevated blood pressure, it is wise to consult your doctor. Doctors look for a pattern over time, rather than a single high reading. If you are concerned, it is best to discuss your symptoms and readings with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance and suggest appropriate next steps, which may include lifestyle changes or even medication.

Additional Factors Affecting Blood Pressure

Other factors that can influence blood pressure include:

Hydration: Dehydration or overhydration can affect blood volume, leading to changes in blood pressure. Lifestyle: Regular exercise, including walking and resting routines, can help regulate blood pressure. Overdoing it, however, may lead to unnecessary stress on the body. Minor Infections: A cold or other minor infections can cause temporary spikes in blood pressure. Certain Medical Conditions: High blood pressure can also be a sign of more serious conditions such as COVID-19 infection or underlying health issues like allergies or asthma. Taking an at-home COVID test can help rule out any potential concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a single high reading be ignored? A single high reading may not be a cause for concern unless it is a persistent trend. It is important to monitor blood pressure over several days using validated devices. What are the side effects of lowering blood pressure with medication? Lowering blood pressure with medication can lead to side effects such as increased urination and a feeling of fatigue, which may further affect blood flow to various parts of the body. How often should I check my blood pressure? It is recommended to check blood pressure regularly, ideally twice a day, to establish a baseline and detect any trends. Consistency in checking is key.

By understanding the factors that influence blood pressure and following recommended practices for accurate monitoring, you can take control of your health and potentially avoid unnecessary stress and complications.