Significant Increase in Blood Pressure Over Two Months
Two months ago, on December 10th, 2025, I visited a CVS minute clinic due to a sinus infection, where my blood pressure was recorded at 120/74. However, during a recent visit to my general practitioner for my yearly health examination, my blood pressure soared to an alarming 200/114. The staff measured it multiple times, suspecting an error, even using a different device. The lowest reading captured was still quite high at 191/118. After discussing my situation, the doctor inquired whether I had a blood pressure monitor at home, which I do, and advised me to monitor my readings closely. Currently, after taking multiple readings, the most favorable result was 202/114, which is causing me some concern. - Female, age 39 - Weight: 175 lbs, Height: 5'2" - Non-smoker - Social drinker - No specific dietary restrictions - Sedentary lifestyle - No known family history of heart disease - Currently taking 20mg/day of Escitalopram and 450mg/day of Bupropion for anxiety and depression Online resources suggest that my readings indicate a "hypertensive crisis," a term that sounds rather serious. Despite my weight issues, these figures appear excessively high. I plan to message my GP for a follow-up, but I am wondering how alarmed I should be in the meantime?
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 10:20:30 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your significant increase in blood pressure. High readings, especially if they've consistently been above 200/100 mmHg, warrant attention, as they can indicate a possible hypertensive crisis.
Explanation:
Blood pressure is considered high when readings consistently exceed 130/80 mmHg, and your recent measurements are indeed in the hypertensive range. A hypertensive crisis often requires immediate medical intervention. Factors contributing to high blood pressure can include stress, poor diet, a sedentary lifestyle, or hormonal changes, among others. Since this is a clear change from your previous readings of 120/74, it is important to monitor this condition closely.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Blood Pressure Regularly: Keep taking your readings at the same time each day, ideally in a calm state, and record them. Aim to do this at least twice a day to identify patterns (morning and evening are best).
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Lifestyle Modifications:
- Diet: Consider adopting a heart-healthy diet. Focus on reducing salt intake, increasing fruits and vegetables, and incorporating whole grains. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet could be beneficial.
- Physical Activity: Even minor increases in physical activity, like walking for 20-30 minutes most days, can help. If you're sedentary, start slowly and gradually build up.
- Weight Management: Given your weight and height, losing even a small amount of weight can improve blood pressure.
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Stay Hydrated and Limit Alcohol: Drink plenty of water and limit alcohol consumption, as it can contribute to elevated blood pressure.
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Stress Management Techniques: Consider techniques to manage stress such as deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness practices, as stress can also elevate blood pressure.
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Follow-Up with Your GP: Since you’re planning to message your GP for further advice, let them know about your home readings and any symptoms you may be experiencing (like shortness of breath or irregular heartbeat). This communication is crucial for assessing your situation.
It's great that you're taking steps to address these changes. Monitoring your condition actively and supporting each lifestyle choice is vital until you can confirm appropriate medical actions with your healthcare provider. If you experience severe symptoms like chest pain, severe headache, vision changes, or shortness of breath, seek immediate medical attention.
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