Brief Answer: Early morning BP reading is the ACTUAL reading Detailed Answer: Hi Ma'am, Thanks for your query. Firstly, BP changes from time to time, being higher after exercise and, lower after rest. The most accurate BP reading is the one which is recorded IMMEDIATELY on waking up in the morning. Under ideal circumstances, this value determines whether the individual is hypertensive or not. However, in practice, this is not possible. Hence, the preferable method of recording a NEAR-IDEAL BP is take the BP after, at least 10 minutes or rest in lying position. Casual BP readings, taken as soon as the patient arrives in the hospital/clinic will be higher and therefore, misleading. At least three BP readings, taken on different days and each after 10 minutes of total rest, should be higher than the normal levels, to label the person as hypertensive. In your case, your BP increases- like a vast majority of people- due to development of sudden nervousness, tension and apprehensions when the doctor examines you. This phenomenon is called "White Coat Syndrome". The ONLY way to solve this problem, is to buy a digital BP instrument which is very easy to use and it displays the upper + lower readings on the panel; record your BP AS SOON YOU WAKE UP IN THE MORNING, EVEN BEFORE YOU GET OUT OF BED. If these readings- taken early morning, immediately on waking up- are within normal range, it RULES OUT HYPERTENSION. In that case, you need NOT take any medicines for hypertension! If these readings are somewhere near the upper limit, low salt intake, low fat diet, reduction of body weight to within acceptable range and, regular exercises, meditation/Yoga will restore your BP to within normal range. However, medications would be required if these readings are beyond upper limits. In that case, your doctor will prescribe suitable medication(s) in appropriate doses. Hope I have addressed to your concerns to your complete satisfaction and you find my response helpful and informative. I will be happy to answer further queries, if any. Fond regards and have a nice day, Dr. Rakesh Karanwal

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Brief Answer: Take anti-anxiety drug under doctor's supervision Detailed Answer: Hi Ma'am, I am happy that my reply was helpful. You may certainly take anti-anxiety treatment, BUT under supervision of your doctor. He will titrate the dose so that you remain free from anxiety. Regards, Dr. Rakesh Karanwal

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Brief Answer: Your BP is normal. No medicines required Detailed Answer: Hi Ma'am, A BP of 120/60 is perfectly normal and safe. There is no requirement of any medication. A well-balanced diet; maintenance of body weight at desirable level; regular exercises and a stress-free mental disposition is the ideal combination for maintaining your BP within ideal range. Regards, Dr. Rakesh Karanwal

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