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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #16029
46 days ago
74

hypertension reason - #16029

Aayan

I am kind of freaking out about my blood pressure lately. I went for a check-up a few weeks ago, and my doctor said it was high – like, 150/95 or something. I thought I was doing alright, but I guess I’ve been feeling more stressed than usual, and maybe that’s the hypertension reason? Like, I've been working long hours, and I don't always eat well. Just last weekend, I had a pretty intense argument with my partner, and my heart was racing, sweat dripping down my face. That got me thinking, could emotional stress really be a hypertension reason? Also, I heard my sister mention something about how certain foods can play a role, and I kinda wondered if coffee is part of the hypertension reason too? My mom has hypertension, and I’ve never really laid out all the factors before. I’m starting to think maybe a lack of exercise is significant, but I keep telling myself that I’ll get to it later. Do you guys have advice or insights? It’s been a rollercoaster, unsure if I need to make drastic changes or what, you know? Just feeling a bit lost.

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Doctors’ responses

It’s not uncommon to see blood pressure readings like 150/95 especially when life’s throwing curveballs your way. Emotional stress, like a tough day at work or an argument, can cause temporary spikes in blood pressure, but chronic stress could contribute to sustained hypertension. Stress triggers hormones that may increase your heart rate and constrict blood vessels, so managing stress is crucial. It’s quite relatable to skip meals or grab fast food when you’re busy, but dietary choices do play a significant role in hypertension. Foods high in salt, processed foods, and excessive caffeine—like how your daily coffee habit might end up—can all affect blood pressure levels. So yes, caffeine can be a factor, especially if you’re drinking lots. It might be helpful to cut back or switch to decaf gradually to see if there’s a difference. Family history, like your mom’s hypertension, certainly increases your risk, so it’s wise to be proactive. Regular exercise is one of the best self-care measures and helps in lowering blood pressure, so perhaps aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise. This can be brisk walking or any activity that gets your heart pumping a bit. While it feels daunting, small, steady changes can make a huge difference. Consider a “DASH” diet — Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension — which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It might be worth setting short-term goals. Ensure you follow up with your doctor for regular monitoring, as untreated hypertension can lead to serious complications. Stay attentive to any worrisome symptoms like chest pain or dizziness, and seek medical advice if these arise. Remember, addressing hypertension early on can prevent more serious issues down the road!

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