Blood Pressure and Anxiety

There are lots of different things to consider when assessing the blood pressure in people, and these can include such diverse problems such as

• Emotion
• Exercise
• Respiration
• Heavy meal
• Smoking
• Alcohol intake
• Temperature
• Pain
• Bladder problems
• Circadian rhythms
• Age
• Gender
• Race

Therefore when they are having their blood pressure taken, the individual should be as relaxed as possible, and if feasible sat in a very quiet room with the temperature at a comfortable degree.

If possible the person should have had a good hour's interlude of relaxation before their blood pressure is taken. If these conditions cannot be maintained, it should be realised if the blood pressure is raised that there might be other factors to consider.

Anxiety can also raise the blood pressure by as much as 30mm Hg. This is because the fight or flight automatic response to danger is present in a raised blood pressure, so if the person is anxious etc, it will then be reflected in their blood pressure.

Some people need lots of reassurance when having their blood pressure checked. Therefore the person checking their blood pressure should ensure they give that individual the assurance they need they are very capable people and qualified to take a blood pressure and understand the results.

Once the individual becomes accustomed to their surroundings and the person taking their blood pressure, then hopefully their blood pressure will subside to a more normal limit.

It is also found that often a person’s blood pressure is higher when measured by a doctor and to a lesser degree by nurses. This is known as “white coat syndrome”

When checking someone’s blood pressure, it is always wise to monitor their respirations, and pulse rate. If their respirations or pulse rate are above a “normal” rate for that person, then they should be left to rest and their resting pulse rate rechecked again about fifteen minutes later.

If it is within normal limits then the blood pressure can be taken.

Many people are nervous and worried about their blood pressure and are eager to learn more about high blood pressure and what has caused it. It is the duty of the health care professional to give full concise explanations to all their patients, as this then usually helps to alleviate any anxiety over health problems.