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What Causes Fluctuations In BP Readings?
I am 51 years old with a history of low blood pressure until about a year ago. On a routine office visit I was told my blood pressure was high. I had a stress test and was told they detected an extra beat but nothing to worry about. I have checked my blood pressure when visiting stores that carry the equipment & it continues to run on the high side. Last visit to ENT he was unable to hear my blood pressure (check in nurse told me it was still on the high end). I purchased a home monitor and my readings have been 167/99 73 pulse (highest since purchasing) today 158/88 84 pulse. My doctor says these are just numbers. I don t need to worry. My question is, when is blood pressure medicine prescribed? And, how long is normal for blood pressure to go on in the high range before it is considered a problem?
Tue, 21 Jul 2020
Hello,
Increase in blood pressure or fluctuating BP with age is normal. It is commonly because of structural changes in the arteries, weight gain, elevated salt intake, anxiety/ stress, side effects of certain medications, addictions(caffeine, smoking, etc), unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, etc. Medical conditions that may trigger fluctuations in BP are dehydration, diabetes, insomnia, sleep apnea, developing CAD or kidney disease, etc. BP more than 140/90 at your age is considered high. You need to make certain lifestyle changes to get control over it before it causes complications. You can control BP naturally too.
You are suggested to get a cardiac check up done to rule out any developing CAD. Sometimes, developing heart diseases may trigger BP. Get treated at the earliest. You may need medicines. In the meantime, take plenty of water, cut salt intake, take food cooked in olive oil, avoid trans fat, red meat, cheese, refined flour, carbs, sugars and addictions of any. Avoid stress, take adequate sleep, do regular exercise, walking , jogging. Stay cheerful.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
Increase in blood pressure or fluctuating BP with age is normal. It is commonly because of structural changes in the arteries, weight gain, elevated salt intake, anxiety/ stress, side effects of certain medications, addictions(caffeine, smoking, etc), unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, etc. Medical conditions that may trigger fluctuations in BP are dehydration, diabetes, insomnia, sleep apnea, developing CAD or kidney disease, etc. BP more than 140/90 at your age is considered high. You need to make certain lifestyle changes to get control over it before it causes complications. You can control BP naturally too.
You are suggested to get a cardiac check up done to rule out any developing CAD. Sometimes, developing heart diseases may trigger BP. Get treated at the earliest. You may need medicines. In the meantime, take plenty of water, cut salt intake, take food cooked in olive oil, avoid trans fat, red meat, cheese, refined flour, carbs, sugars and addictions of any. Avoid stress, take adequate sleep, do regular exercise, walking , jogging. Stay cheerful.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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