1. Elevated blood pressure: Don’t worry if it’s just one reading after a stressful event. If you haven’t checked your BP in a while and then see the higher number 140’s or 150’s, if you don’t have any other symptoms, don’t panic. Rest for 20 minutes and measure it again, if it goes back to 120’s, just keep an eye on it, measure it a few times a week and mention it to your doctor on your next appointment. You might have pre-hypertension, and some lifestyle modification can help you delay the need for medication.
When to see your doctor: If you get high reading several times a week, make an appointment with your doctor ASAP. Untreated high blood pressure is called the silent killer. It increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. If your blood pressure is over 180 the higher number or the lower number is over 110, this is a medical emergency, seek help immediately.