Recently on a couple of unrelated doctor visits, during the initial assessment, my blood pressure has been extremely high. This is concerning me, because I am only 27 years old. But, about 15 mins. or so after the first time they check it, they recheck it and it falls back to normal. The first time this happened, the doctor dismissed it as an error on behalf of the nurse, But, it's been reoccurring. I spoke with my doctor about it, and he said that I have reactive blood pressure, (my blood pressure reacts to situations [I hate doctors)! But, it may also be an indication of early high blood pressure and he wants me to keep monitoring it.

I am wondering if anyone else has had this, or heard of it and if there is any advice you can give me. I know I should speak to my doctor more about this, but he doesn't seem very concerned. Thank you for your time.

Wayne

Reactive High Blood Pressure is the same as what is called White Coat Syndrome, its the anxiety situtations that cause it, exactly as you stated, hate going to the doctor, etc.

He probably wants you to monitor it at home, once a day, just to see how your BP numbers are while you are relaxed. One good thing, at least your BP does drop to normal numbers while you are there.

I have the same thing.....white coat syndrome. Never happened to me until I started the blood thinners for my pregnancy. Ever since then, every time I go my blood pressure is much higher than it ever was. Hopefully it will not stay like that! If you are concerned, you should buy a monitor to check it at home and keep a record. :p

I have that even when I'm at home. It usually takes about 10 readings for my BP to fall in the "normal" category. And even then, it's still on the high side (high 130's/high 80's).

I think the mere sight of the cuff sends my BP up about 20 points.

It doesn't matter how many times mine is taken in the doctors office, it runs sky high. I really think mine goes up just driving to my appointment.

Mine goes up just thinking of taking the machine out of my dresser! No kidding! I get a nervous jolt in my chest & butterflies when I think about taking my pressure! Even at home it takes quite a few tries to get my BP down into the "pre-hypertensive" category.

Well, Thank you all for taking the time to reply to my post. I am concerned, but at the same time, I am not concerned. I am just getting prepared for the time that I become concerned. (I Hope that made sense to you)LOL!

I guess I say that because, my doctor isn't concerned at this moment. What he tells me to do is to check it on occasion, like when I go by one of the machines at the pharmacy or Wal Mart. So far my BP, has been at a very nice level, But my kids are working on it.LOL!!

Well, I shouldn't say that I am not concerned, because I am concerned, and I wonder what I should do to, maybe help the situation not get worse. I don't know much about blood pressure, didn't think I would have to think about this stuff at this age. But you never know.

Thanks Again, Everyone,

Wayne

Same here. The doc isn't really concerned, even though my last BP reading was 180/105! He still thinks it's related to anxiety. Also, he happened to mention that the BP machines at the pharmacy and at Wal-Mart are pure crap. They will always display higher numbers than your actual BP. Also, most of them still indicate the old standards on them...

140/90 or lower = Normal
141/91 to 159/94 = High Normal
160/95 or higher = Hypertension

I don't know if it's like that for you guys, but the last few machines I've seen at Wal-Mart and at the drug store still had those standards on them. I don't know what they're waiting for to change them.

Wayne,

Although genetics often plays a role in hypertension, there's a lot you can do now to hopefully ward off blood pressure issues in the future.

Get regular aerobic exercise of some kind. Even walking 4 times a week for 30 minutes will really do wonders. Not just for the blood pressure but for overall cardiovascular health and a sense of well-being.

Lose weight if overweight.
Alcohol in moderation.
Caffeine in moderation.
Lower your daily sodium intake significantly. Read labels! (keep total daily amount down to 2400mgs or less). Packaged and processed foods, baked goods, even canned vegetables are loaded with sodium. It's hidden everywhere. It's always best to eat "fresh" of you can. Also don't add table salt to anything. This sodium thing is a toughie I know. Get creative with spices... and garlic and lemon juice help a lot in getting over the "salt habit".

Limit red meat. Eat more fish (not deep fried!) and boneless, skinless chicken or turkey. Use olive oil if you like to "fry" or saute.
Reduce animal fat in your diet overall.
Lots of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Don't smoke (easier said than done if you are already hooked).

Hope some of these tips help. You don't have to go crazy... even the smallest changes early can make a huge difference while you're still young and healthy.

zuzu xx