What Causes Spike In Blood Pressure Level When Under Stress?

Posted on Thu, 6 Nov 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 6 Nov 2014 Answered on

Wed, 3 Dec 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 64 years old. Until 6 weeks ago I had normal or lower then normal blood pressure. In the last few weeks I have noticed my blood pressure gets very high after I worry or get nervous. The same day I may have BP 90/60 and 200/113. What is the reason for it.

Answered by Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (-5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Need more info

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for the query

Your blood pressure recordings are rather unusual. Anxiety and stress commonly increases the blood pressure but not such high levels and also we don't expect such high diastolic pressure. Apart from that high blood pressure is never treated in patients whose blood pressure is noted under stress
Here is what I suggest

1. Buy yourself a good automatic blood pressure machine
2. Check blood pressure everyday morning before breakfast in lying down position
3. You must be well rested and not had coffee or cigarettes
4. Check blood pressure once again in the evening before dinner in a similar way
5. If the blood pressure is above 140/90 it will require treatment

Hyoertension seen after exercise or stress is not treated as it is self limiting

I hope I was of help, if you have any further queries please get back to me

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar