What Causes Increase In BP Readings During Mornings?

Posted on Wed, 22 Apr 2015

Question: What health problem might cause my blood pressure to be very elevated each morning after I get up.. EKG mostly normal in hospital. When I lie down, my pressure decreases. As the day goes on , my pressure often returns to normal range. Thank you! XXXX

Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (27 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Its not a health problem

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I am Dr Mittal
I have read your query.
I think I will be able to help you.
You see, the fact remains that the effect of the medicine may be ending till the morning thereby causing a increase in the blood pressure in the morning.
This is increased by the fact that the body secretes the catecholamines at night that increase the blood pressure for everyone.
EKG will be normal. Hypertension is not always reflected in EKG>
As the day goes by, you take your medicines again, and so the BP comes back to normal. And lying down will reduce the body activity thereby reducing the blood pressure again.
So, as explained, its not a health problem.
I hope that explains your question.
Please feel free to ask a follow up query.
Dr Mittal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Saumya Mittal (33 minutes later)

My grandparents had severe strokes. I don't wish that to happen to my. My husband of 53 years has developed dementia. God willing I hope to take care of h im. I have tried so much to take good care of myself. I cook organic from scratch, I maintain an acceptable blood sugar. Would taking the medications at different times be the answer? I am a retired RN so I have some knowledge.

Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (13 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
risks explained

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for the response.
The Co morbid conditions that you have do predispose you to a stroke irrespective of the blood pressure . You have 3 risk factors that are known to increase the risk of stroke. This includes atrial fibrillation, heart attack and age. Diabetes and hypertension increase the risk too.

There is no perfect way of knowing the chances of stroke . I think noone can predict the development of a stroke. Still getting g an echo and CV doppler will be a good idea.

As for blood pressure, taking a higher dose of medicines at night may help.

By the way, are you overweight or do you snore? Both suggest obstructive sleep apnea and this can be a cause of raised bp in morning.

I have tried to make it as simple as possible. I hope that the information helps you. Please feel free to contact us for more information. Best of luck. Dr Mittal.

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad