anxiety and high blood pressure

christa50 · Post by **christa50** » Sun Jun 22, 2008 5:50 pm

I have been having alot of anxiety the last few days and have ended up going to the clinic because my blood pressure is running pretty high. I have always had some problems with this but never this high. The doctor said its from the anxiety and to try to things to relax. i started a new job a week ago and things have gone sideways since then. Could my blood pressure go from 130/80 to 165/95 from anxiety? Has anyone else had the problem? My anxiety didnt seem to bother this before.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Sun Jun 22, 2008 11:29 pm

I suppose it could since our bp increases when we are upset. Also, some antidepressants raise bp. If you're not comfortable with your doctor's assessment, seek a second opinion. It may make you feel better. Good luck!

Genie

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Jun 23, 2008 1:47 am

absolutely your bp can rise from anxiety.
try to work on your program and control your stress level and your bp will also come down.

I have had this bp issue for years because of my stress level it doesnt help much that I also get very nervous when I go to the doctor.

There are lots of things you can do to naturally lower bp.....excersise is the number one thing. If you can incorporate a 30 minute walk or bike ride into your routine that will help drastically with your bp and your anxiety. excersise lowers the cortisol and other stress chemicals our bodies produce when we are anxious. Check with your doctor but Calcium is a calming mineral also found to help maintain healthy blood pressure and if your a woman good for your bones as well. The Bvitamins although dont directly lower bp they are essential for the nervous system so if you have anxiety issues they will help you feel better with that and that will help with the bp....its all connected.

Most important try not to worry or stress about your readings. The more you do that the more they will remain higher and you will see less of a change. Dont worry...Ive battled this for years and I dont have any serious health issues from this situation.....its going to be ok try some of these suggestions and relax!
If you can calm the anxeity your bp will read much healthier.

Dodger

Don57 · Post by **Don57** » Mon Jun 23, 2008 2:14 am

Hi -

Anxiety can definitely affect your bp. In fact, they call it "white coat syndrome" when someone's bp rises due to anxiety about being at the doctor's office. Try not to worry too much about it. Use your positive self talk to remind yourself it is just the anxiety and it will get better as the anxiety gets better. You may want to get a home bp kit so you can check it when you're feeling less anxious at home. Mine is almost always normal at home as opposed to the doctor's office. This can be very reassuring.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Jun 23, 2008 6:54 am

My BP does the same thing, Beth - always better at home than at the doctor's office. Buying a home monitor was a smart decision.