cause of bp - #21849
I am really worried because I've been feeling off lately. My doctor said my blood pressure is higher than normal, but I don’t really get what's causing it. I've been trying to eat healthier; I cut back on salt and junk food, but the readings still come back high. I don’t know if it’s stress from work or something else. Last week, after a pretty intense day, I checked my bp at a drugstore and it was like 145/95! Then the nurse told me that the cause of bp issues could be soo many things. I thought it was just about diet and exercise, but then I heard it can be genetic or from certain medications too. I don’t take any meds, except for some occasional ibuprofen for headaches. Do pain relievers like that affect blood pressure? My dad had heart issues, so I can't help but worry. Also, sometimes I feel like my chest gets tight, but then it goes away, which freaks me out. Could that be connected to the cause of bp? like does anxiety play a role too? I just want to know what I should be looking into or any tests I should ask about to figure this out. Thanks for any insights!
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Doctors' responses
Understanding the causes behind high blood pressure (often abbreviated as BP) can be complicated, as it can indeed stem from multiple factors like you’ve mentioned. While diet and exercise play significant roles in managing blood pressure, they aren’t the whole picture. Genetics can contribute substantially; if your dad had heart issues, it’s possible there’s a familial predisposition to cardiovascular conditions that could affect your blood pressure. Lifestyle factors, including stress and anxiety, can also play a role. Stress, especially, can cause temporary spikes in blood pressure by triggering a release of hormones like adrenaline that temporarily increase blood pressure. It’s also possible for anxiety to cause symptoms like chest tightness, which you mentioned. However, it’s crucial not to overlook these symptoms, as they could also signify a more serious issue, especially when combined with a family history of heart problems.
Regarding medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can potentially increase blood pressure. Although usually used occasionally, they can still have an impact. Monitoring your BP closely if you’re taking these is a good idea. For immediate advice, try taking your blood pressure readings at different times of the day over several days, noting any particular triggers or times when it’s high. Consider seeing your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and history in greater detail. They may recommend additional tests like an ECG, lab work, or a 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor to assess patterns more thoroughly. Lifestyle adjustments beyond diet, like incorporating stress management techniques (yoga, meditation, etc.), can also be beneficial. Remember, while lifestyle and diet changes are important, medical supervision is key in effectively managing your blood pressure, particularly with your specific symptoms and family history. If chest tightness persists or intensifies, seek immediate medical attention to rule out any acute cardiac conditions.
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