What causes unstable blood pressure that fluctuates between high and low?

Apr 24, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Tian Hongbo

Introduction

Blood pressure fluctuating between high and low may be influenced by physiological factors, antihypertensive medications, or underlying diseases. Physiological factors include seasonal changes, environmental shifts, and changes in work or daily life conditions. Drug effects refer to the action of blood pressure-lowering medications. Diseases mainly involve respiratory problems. In most cases, fluctuating blood pressure is a normal phenomenon; however, if accompanied by other discomforts, timely medical treatment is necessary.

Blood pressure fluctuating suddenly high and low may be influenced by physiological factors such as physical condition, emotions, and rest, or may be affected by antihypertensive medications or underlying diseases. Specific causes are as follows:

1. Physiological factors

Changes in season, environment, and work or daily life status can affect blood pressure to some extent. This is a normal physiological phenomenon that does not require intervention and should not cause excessive concern. Large emotional fluctuations, inadequate rest, and stimulation from smoking or alcohol can also lead to unstable blood pressure. Patients should regulate their mood, adjust their sleep schedule, and quit smoking and drinking.

2. Effects of antihypertensive medications

The type, dosage, and duration of action of antihypertensive drugs can also influence blood pressure fluctuations. For example, taking short-acting antihypertensive medications may rapidly lower blood pressure in a short time, but several hours later when the drug effect wears off, blood pressure may rise again.

3. Disease-related factors

Respiratory diseases or severe obesity leading to sleep-disordered breathing (such as sleep apnea) may result in elevated blood pressure during the late night, relatively high blood pressure upon waking in the morning, followed by a decrease after becoming fully awake. Patients should seek timely medical evaluation and intervention.

In most cases, fluctuating blood pressure is a normal phenomenon and does not require special treatment. However, if accompanied by other discomforts, prompt medical attention and treatment are necessary.

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Can I get vaccinated if my blood pressure is 155 over 85?

If this blood pressure level has been stably maintained over a long period (e.g., through regular use of antihypertensive medication) and the individual does not experience symptoms such as dizziness, headache, or chest tightness, with overall stable health status, vaccination generally will not cause significant blood pressure fluctuations nor affect vaccine efficacy. After medical evaluation, routine vaccination can be administered, followed by continued blood pressure monitoring.

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Can an 80-year-old who has had three strokes still receive vaccines?

If recovery after stroke has been good, with no worsening of acute symptoms such as limb motor impairment or altered consciousness, stable control of baseline indicators like blood pressure and blood glucose, and no history of vaccine allergy or other severe contraindications, vaccination (e.g., influenza vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine) may be considered appropriate after comprehensive evaluation by a physician, in order to reduce the risk of complications from infections.