Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => Other Health Discussion => Topic started by: Elliebee on December 18, 2022, 11:35:28 AM
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I had a routine BUPA health assessment last week and my blood pressure was initially 141/90 (I had a stressful journey to centre). The assessor told me it was slightly high and he would repeat at end of assessment. Further 2 readings were higher at 160/90! I do suffer from health anxiety and I am worried sick now. Results were sent to GP and I’ve to go in tomorrow afternoon for Bp check. I cannot relax!
I borrowed a friends BP monitor on Friday and my my BP was all over the place so I have stopped using that as it was freaking me out even more!
I’m a healthy weight and cholesterol although slightly above 5 - my good cholesterol is very high and ratio of good to bad cholesterol is very good.
Are these BP levels Horrendous and how do I stay calm for BP check tomorrow??
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Get a home monitor from Boots. Measure every day at the same time breakfast is best. White Coat Syndrome is common. After a few mornings U will find that you anxiety levels drop so the BP will too.
I don't think this 1 off is a worry. My machine gives a heart rate too.
Tell the GP/Nurse that you are anxious about the results, they are used to that. They may take 3 readings .... don't worry about that either.
Let us know how you get on. Mine went up to 149/70 last week after 5 days off in the 121s.
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I borrowed a friends monitor but it made me even more anxious!
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Hi Elliebee
I definitely suffer from white coat syndrome so my surgery is going to allow me to take my own blood pressure over a couple of days as part of my annual HRT check. I used my own monitor a few months ago and it was ok. I agree it’s hard to relax before you are about to take the reading but make sure you don’t have caffeine for 2 or 3 hours prior, do a bit of deep breathing, even listen to a “meditation to reduce your blood pressure” on YouTube. That’s what I do ;)
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Just the thought of having the cuff fitted sends my anxiety through the roof. I’m looking for a good natural remedy for anxiety and morning dreads
I do listen to meditation apps and do breathing exercises too.
Just got it in my head that I’m going to have a stroke or heart attack any minute!
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Buy a home one, Omron are the ones i use and take two readings, twice a day and discard first reading you can then average those out over a week.
I have white coat syndrome in medical setting, always have. I have been coping with a lot of stress this year and even home readings have spiked all over the place.
One of the GPs at my practice takes a holistic approach plus BP meds if needed. He sent me a load of links about relaxation, deep breathing, mindfulness. Have to say i was a bit sceptical but after a lot of practice with the controlled breathing i now get systolic readings lower by us much as 30 pts. My diastolic seems to behave itself a bit more.
Getting anxious makes my BP spike even on home monitor, i doubt you have true high BP. So try and relax about it and buy a home one.
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GP told me stroke risk rises with readings that are over 180/120 constantly.
Do you exercise? I ways up mine if getting higher readings as like you worry about stroke risk.
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I do exercise- run 6k 3/4 times a week and do a weekly Bootcamp, plus walking and gardening etc. I probably need to check salt intake. We do cook from scratch but sometimes use curry pastes, soy sauces , soups etc.
My mum has high blood pressure so it could be genetic?
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Wow, you do exercise a lot!
It can have a genetic component,my sister has raised BP too. Although both my parents have never had high BP and they are now in their eighties.
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I borrowed a friends monitor but it made me even more anxious!. Using 1 regularly will even your readings. A stroke is likely if 1 has consistently high blood pressure, ias well as being overweight, lacks an exercise regime. 1 can do too much exercise, particularly if you aren't eating to compensate.
Keeping hydrated is important when exercising.
1 is rarely aware of a stroke, my neighbour was ill for several months with no particular symptoms that would suggest one. She's made a good recovery.
Let us know how you get on at the GP appt.
The body requires salts. MinL's GP kept cutting her intake down due to her dizzy spells each morning as she got out of bed: when she was rushed to Hospital the Consultant couldn't understand how she could stand at all!!! her potassium was so low it was touch and go. She had cramps in hands and feet and I kept suggesting that she was lacking salt but "The GP told me " >:(
The body also requires fats.
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I don’t drink enough water , especially in winter. I do drink alcohol but only 2/3 times a week and mostly within the recommended limits.
I think anxiety is a big contributing factor.
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Hi Elliebee
I could have written your original post, except my readings were higher than yours.
I can't even take my blood pressure monitor out of the drawer at home, after some higher readings last year. It just makes me so anxious.
What helped me was wearing a 24 hour monitor from the Dr's surgery. For some reason, even though I knew it would go off every 30 minutes (hourly at bedtime) I didn't get as stressed over it. Worth a thought maybe.
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Good idea. As long as 1 continues with the usual daily routine: not like MinL who wouldn't move about or do housework for the whole week she wore one! so of course, readings were 'normal'. Or stayed with her son and was waiting on, hand and food. Proved nowt hence the rush to Hospital ....... [see above].
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You are right CLKD, you do have to "carry on as normal" when wearing it. In the past I've occasionally had to jot down what I was doing at the time of readings.
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I would certainly prefer the 24 hour monitor and carry on as normal. If my reading is normal tomorrow I will still worry that this wrong!
If high then I will ask for the 24 hR monitor.
How high were your readings Lynda? Did the 24 hR monitor show lower levels?
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Try not to think too far ahead. U may find your appt will be OK. Anxiety can be caused by cortisol, the waking hormone which would raise me suddenly anytime after 3.00 a.m. :'( I would wake terrified. Betablocaka medication eased it fortunately.
Let us know how you get on.
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Elliebee, yes my readings with the 24 hour monitor came down, something like 148/90 from memory - that was 11 month ago - of course this is still at the high end but my Dr agreed I could continue to try lifestyle changes, I'm due the 24 hour monitor again next month. I can't remember the exact at home readings but they were considerably higher than the 24 hour monitor. I was taking the readings at a time when no-one had asked me to take my blood pressure but I was feeling really anxious - so I took it - and I am afraid I then got myself into a downward spiral with it all. I have cut alcohol out totally for 11 month now but I see you don't drink much anyway.
As CKLD said, it may well be fine at your appointment but I would agree with you that anxiety plays a part in it. Let us know how you go on.
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Lynda07 that’s reassuring . I’d prefer lifestyle changes to meds. What other changes have you made? I hope that they have reduced your BP further !
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Elliebee, I've tried to up my exercise - sadly I've also been diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the right hip so that's been hit and miss but I do walk daily (I have two collies so that's non negotiable lol). Some diet changes but my diet wasn't bad really. I think for me personally the single biggest thing I did was take responsibility for trying to sort my anxiety out as it was really at an all time high since 1990 at the beginning of this year and I couldn't get counselling (long waiting list). I discovered the Balance App and a website called The Anxious Truth and after years of searching they seemed to help me to some degree.
But - I still cant take my blood pressure at home. I can't believe I'm saying that after 11 months but just the thought of it scares me. I never used to be like it but am struggling to get past it.
I don't want tablets either, I gave up alcohol (and I loved a drink) rather than have to face medication.
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My GP recently took my blood pressure, which was 180/80. I already have a monitor so was asked to test at home for two weeks (two days to go). I am averaging 142/72, which I am quite happy with. White coat syndrome is very common so I wouldn't worry too much.
They do like you to be closer to 130 but anything around 140 usually means life style changes. Medication for high blood pressure is not always/: often affective. Check out what you can do to lower it naturally and remember, worry will raise it anyway.
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Lynda07 I think it’s anxiety pushing mine up! I’m not on any meds and try to manage symptoms naturally. My anxiety is definitely worse in second half of cycle. Still having periods - more light spotting really/ but they are erratic.
I will look at the Anxious Truth site. I use the Balance App.
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April flower I can’t even bring myself to
Monitor it at home 😬 Going to try and relax until my appointment tomorrow.
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What's the worst that could happen if you took your BP 3 times a day? Anxiety is dreadful which may well increase BP . I've lived with it since the age of 3 :'(
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CKLD, for me, the worse thing would be three readings a day that were off the scale due to my anxiety- and probably not a true reading as such, as wearing the monitor for 24 hours proved. So then I’d get in more of a state the next day and the next until in the end it would be an unhealthy obsession for me.
I sympathise with you as I’ve suffered since childhood too.
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It can take a while to over come anxiety. Especially something health related. I know that by taking my BP due to a possible diabetic problem I am making sure that I am looking after myself to the best of my ability. Ask me to do something tomorrow though and anxiety levels rise >:( :'(. Spontaneous. Me.
Anxiety can be so controlling.
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CLKD, it can be for sure.x
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Anxiety is just horrendous and definitely gets worse in perimenopause. I know what u mean Lynda07 about checking and this causing more anxiety. It’s a viscous circle.
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Elliebee, if you haven’t already I would mention to the Dr how anxious it’s made you feel so they can at least take that into account when they take your bp. That may make a difference to what they suggest next if it is high - and it might not be high anyway, thinking positively. Like you said you’d had a stressful journey to your original appointment.
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Lynda I will do. I’ll let everyone know how I get on. Thank you for all your help and advice.
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Do some relaxation breathing when you get to the surgery and press the fact that you are extremely nervous.
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Update
I saw practice nurse today and told her I was very anxious. I got to appointment early and practiced breathing etc.
The first reading was 180/88 (very anxious at this point)
Second was 162/88
Third was 162/84
I now have to wait until 3 Jan to see my GP! Stressed out is not the word for it!
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There must have been some conversation during the appt. :-\. ? I think that had the Nurse been particularly worried she would have asked a GP for advice. The 2nd/3rd readings were consistent, not bouncing around.
Try not to stress. It's hard enough at This Time of Year!
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CLKD yes some conversation. I explained to nurse why I was called in and that I suffered with health anxiety. Told her that at BUPA appt the assessor told me my first reading was high (I think that was around 140/90. This stressed me out and it rose to 160/90! So the nurse was very good and did not tell me the readings. I can see them now on NhS app!!
Nurse said the first reading was due to stress /anxiety. I closed my eyes and took deep breaths before next two!
She said to make a non/urgent appointment with GP for after Xmas and they would decide on further monitoring or meds. I gave the nurse all my other measurements from the BUPA assessment- BMI, cholesterol etc. and she recorded these too.
Trying not to stress! Christmas is not the best time to be super healthy to improve BP! I’m now worried about eating all the lovely food and having fizz and wine!
I did ask the nurse if I’m at risk of keeling over before the New Year and she said only if you drink too much /get drunk !
My Mum did have high blood pressure and was on meds but she’s been off them some time now and it remains low. So maybe this is genetic?
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Or stress! which can raise BP.
Don't over eat/drink, why would any1 :-\. We keep to meal times with fruit snacks and the odd chocolate bar in between. I don't like much C.mas nosh anyway ::). The very thought :-X
Your Nurse sounds reassuring. Take her hint: don't over indulge on the alcohol :drunk: Do U live alone?
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I don’t plan to overdo the alcohol but I’m worried even to have one glass of wine or fizz! I don’t live alone and have a very supportive husband and 2 older children. I eat healthily apart from the odd treat /meal out. But Christmas is when I love some nice cheese etc.
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In small measures. Enjoy each bite, slowly. Don't rush, savour the taste and texture. I think that we all eat far too fast!
More veg and less ......... so that you can cheat a bit ;-). Small measures should be a matter of all year habit, not 'just for C.mas' ;-)
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Hi again Elliebee
I just wanted to say I'm glad your appointment is over. I totally understand your stress (although I'd give anything for those readings in the GP surgery and that's not me in anyway undermining your worry over your readings, I hasten to add).
I hope you manage to enjoy Christmas, it isn't as if they've told you to stop doing anything at this stage (food and drink wise) and your appointment is non urgent so I hope this gives you some reassurance. Don't forget the option of the 24 hour monitor if you can get to wear one, it's still possible your readings are a bit on the high side as you've become anxious about it which I'm sure is quite normal.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas x
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Hi Lynda
Thank you for your reassuring comments. I am trying to relax! To be honest I think if I was allowed to sit quietly in nurses room for another 5-10 minutes my BP may have dropped further. She took the 3 readings in quick succession.
My CBT therapist who I saw yesterday said if I stopped doing the things I enjoy over Christmas it will only make me more anxious. So, all things in moderation. I don’t want to monitor at home as a few people have suggested because if I get a high reading my anxiety will spiral out of control! Our GP surgery has a Bp monitor in reception and I’ve decided I’m not even going to try that as again I’ll freak out! Feel like such a silly , neurotic mare ! I will just assume it’s high make some lifestyle tweaks , try very hard to relax until the 3 Jan.
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Elliebee
I can promise you you are not silly or neurotic. I can also say for sure that I am the same as you and as I may have said - my anxiety about it has spiralled out of control so I just cannot take mine at home. Having it done in the surgery is a nightmare.
I think they are ideally meant to give it a few minutes or so before the next reading but that's from memory, I could be wrong. Little things add up too like not needing the loo, not just having eaten/drunk. Also sitting quietly and still and not talking whilst it's being taken.
For what it's worth I agree with your therapist. All things in moderation but enjoy yourself and try and relax too. I know it's easier said than done but you want to enjoy your Christmas.
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Not silly etc.! I would never venture to try the machine in the Surgery Waiting Room in case any1 was watching and I 'got it wrong' >:( ::)
In moderation every day. I need 2 do more exercise, however been up and down those stairs dozens of times today sorting wrapping paper. It's That Time of Year ::). We never over indulge, mayB spread out our likes throughout the day on a grazing regime. I've had to learn to ignore the "Oh you must eat", "I made that for you", "We eat at X, Y, Z time". If it don't suit me then I takes my own I does :-X. I also never like being asked how I am because then I have to decide.
Deep breathing. Not easy. It needs to be practiced. Apparently ::)
Let us know how you get on both!
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Thank you Lynda07 yes I think they are supposed to wait at least 1 minute between readings and ideally not take first for at least 5 mins after u sit down. But I guess as they are so busy they do it as quickly as possible! I was in and out in about 7 minutes!
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Yes CLKD my therapist said deep breathing needs to be practiced daily to be effective! I just do it in stressful situations!
Good luck with the wrapping !
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I had relaxation tapes - remember those - finding time to listen was the biggest problem, as soon as I did sit down I would get a :cat88: on my lap. We would sleep ::)
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I remember tapes very well 🤣 The relaxation apps are good to unwind too. Cats certainly know how to relax!
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I had 3 though ;D as well as the :scottie: .......
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2 cats here
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:catscratch: :cat48:
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Just been to GP Reading was 152/75 and then 145/85. I’ve been given a monitor to check levels twice a day at home for a week
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I hope you get on ok with the monitor, did they not mention the 24 hour one?
Hopefully they didn't think those readings were too bad and that you are ok.
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Lynda07 I did ask if I could have the 24/7 monitor but GP said they were out in use for higher risk patients. I’m hoping that I will remain calm and stick to the 2 readings per day.
GP said the readings today were not horrendous and didn’t require any rush to prescribe meds.
When do you get your 24/7 monitor?
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That's very reassuring for you Elliebee, I hope you feel the same.
I don't know if I am allowed to post links here but if you search tips on taking your blood pressure at home the Blood Pressure UK website has some information, just in case you find it helpful.
I've yet to book mine with the surgery but it will be in the next month or so.
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Lynda07 I was pleased that the readings were lower than those taken before Christmas. One minute I’m reassured and the next I’m not 😬. Will do my first reading before bed and will do some breathing exercises and meditation before hand. I have to do 3 a few minutes apart and record the lowest. I’m sure if it’s gone high again that will send my anxiety through the roof. God I hate all this getting old /menopause crap! But as my sister said some people would be happy just to have high BP!
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This has been a very informative thread to read. I am about to do 6 days of monitoring mine as I keep getting high readings whilst at the surgery. I always have done and I've always put it down to anxiety but I think its about time I did my own readings in more relaxed circumstances.
Recently told I have high cholesterol 7.2 and am now on statins as of yesterday but I no longer have a diagnoses of prediabetes, I have managed to reverse it. Some good news at least! :)
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This has been a very informative thread to read. I am about to do 6 days of monitoring mine as I keep getting high readings whilst at the surgery. I always have done and I've always put it down to anxiety but I think its about time I did my own readings in more relaxed circumstances.
Recently told I have high cholesterol 7.2 and am now on statins as of yesterday but I no longer have a diagnoses of prediabetes, I have managed to reverse it. Some good news at least! :)
Well done on reversing your prediabetes. I'm sure you'll find your home recorded BP readings lower than the ones in the surgery. Mine always used to be fine in the Dr surgery, and then the dreaded meno anxiety hit and suddenly in my 40's I acquired white coat syndrome ::)
Mind you I have also recently developed high blood pressure for real in my mid 60s, and have just started taking Lercanidipine. Let us know how you get on.
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Well going by my first reading this morning I think it won't be long before I am on meds, but we will see!
My meds list is getting longer, the joys of old age ::)