Blood Pressure

Question

For about a month and a half now I have been having my BP read about 150's/120's. I have never had high BP before, and I have no chest pains just a little flutter now and then. I just don't know. I am Anemic also, could that have anything to do with it?  Anyone have any ideas?

froggiesrb · Answer

Thank you for the info. I will try to get this checked out.

caregiver222 · Answer

You have made a good guess in associating anemia with an elevated blood pressure. Anemia can cause a compensatory elevated blood pressure under certain circumstances. The etiology is as follows: Because of the anemia the amount of oxygen per unit volume of blood that can be carried is decreased. To maintain normal oxygen levels the rate of flow must be increased, which results in a higher heart rate. The blood vessels in the peripheral vasculature may offer resistance to the increased flow resulting in the elevated pressure. Often there is a co-factor, particuliarly calcium utilization problems associated with either low blood calcium or viramin D3 deficiency. Almost always anemia is caused by blood loss somewhere in the gastrointesinal system. It is prudent to identify the cause of the blood loss. Hemorhoids are often the reason. An occult blood stool sample is obtained to identify blood loss from further upm in the intestine. Ocasionally there is a problem with the manufacture of the cells that transport the oxygen. You need a consultation with a specialist called a hematologist to evaluate your anemia. In the United States an emergency room must evaluate you without considering ability to pay. The down side is you will probably get a bill. Look on the internet for Hill-Burton facilities in your geographical area that offer free services for those unable to pay. There are many clinics in every jurisdiction that offer low-cost care for those unable to pay. The deal with the clinics is that you go in for an interview with a social worker who evaluates your ability to pay. A small sum is then charged for each visit, generally from ten to twenty-five dollars, circa 2012 in the United States.

Andrea_RN · Answer

The 150s is not terribly high but the 120s is! It is very important to see your doctor. There are many places that will work with you to pay payments or often times, depending on where you live, there are free clinics. I know that not having insurance is very hard, especially when you can't afford to pay out of pocket, but by treating the problem now, it is going to be MUCH cheaper than a hospital stay if the problem gets worse!

Good luck,
Andrea