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Diagnosis and treatment of blood pressure spikes

 
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
 
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Blood pressure surges are one of the most pressing problems of modern medicine. If earlier this pathology was mainly suffered by elderly people, today young people, even teenagers and small children suffer from this problem. The reasons have not been finally determined, but most experts are inclined to believe that hormonal disorders and stress lead to pressure drops. The pathology is based on increased blood pressure in the vessels as a result of a sharp increase in blood volume and narrowing of the lumen of the vessels. Pressure surges significantly reduce the quality of a person's life and can also lead to serious complications, such as rupture of a vessel, stroke.

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Diagnostics blood pressure spikes

Diagnostics does not require any special means. If pressure surges occur, you should immediately contact a therapist or pediatrician. He will conduct an examination, study the anamnesis, and then select a scheme for further examination. If necessary, a consultation with other specialists, such as a cardiologist, will be scheduled.

Often pressure surges are a secondary pathology that occurs as a result of someone's disease, as one of the symptoms. Therefore, a comprehensive examination may be needed. Often, pressure is a consequence of kidney and liver diseases. Usually, the examination includes laboratory and instrumental studies. Differential diagnostics is required, which makes it possible to distinguish primary pathology from secondary.

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Tests

The list of laboratory tests includes standard clinical tests of blood, urine, and feces. Blood tests provide an overall picture of what is happening in the body and determine the main direction of the processes. For example, blood tests can suggest the presence of inflammation, an infectious or allergic process.

Based on such preliminary data, further studies can be planned. For example, if an inflammatory or infectious process is detected, a biochemical analysis and a detailed immunogram may be required. They will make it possible to assess the direction of the pathology, determine the approximate localization of the pathological process, its stage and degree of development.

If you suspect allergic reactions, you may need to test for immunoglobulin E, which is the main indicator of allergy, and allergen tests. A comprehensive immunogram will show the state of the immune system.

If an infectious process is suspected, a bacteriological culture, analysis for viral infections may be required. Often, blood pressure increases with an active viral disease, latent persistence of viruses in the body, carriage of bacteria, dysbacteriosis. Often, the persistence of herpes viruses, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegaloviruses contributes to an increase in pressure. A study for the TORCH complex of infections may be required, which includes the main viral diseases that are most dangerous for humans. Sometimes it is necessary to take a test for latent infections that occur in the body latent, do not manifest themselves in any way, but nevertheless lead to various internal lesions and diseases.

Urine analysis can indicate pathological processes in the kidneys, liver, and various metabolic disorders. Stool analysis can indicate the presence of dysbacteriosis, disruption of normal bowel and stomach function. Stool can also indicate the presence of an oncological process in the gastrointestinal tract, intoxication, helminthic and other invasive diseases.

Based on the data of physical and special examination, as well as laboratory studies, it is possible to suspect a pathology of a specific functional system. This makes it possible to plan further instrumental studies and consultations with highly qualified specialists.

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Instrumental diagnostics

Instrumental examination includes examination of the main systems and organs, detection of the causes of pathology and establishment of a final diagnosis. Further treatment is selected based on these data.

First of all, the pressure is measured using a tonometer. First, it is recommended to determine the working pressure. To do this, several times the pressure is measured when the person feels normal, has good performance. The data is recorded, then the normal pressure is calculated by determining the arithmetic mean.

Then, pressure measurements are taken when a person feels unwell. The indicators within which pressure fluctuations occur are determined. It is also determined whether the changes are of a hypotonic or hypertonic type. A mixed type may also be observed. Such measurements are taken dynamically: at least 5-6 times a day, for 14 days. It is imperative to measure pressure at rest, when a person has just woken up, during the day - in a state of moderate physical and mental activity, and in the evening - when tired, when activity is reduced, when resting and preparing the body for sleep.

It is important to examine the condition of the cardiovascular system. An angiogram is performed - a study that allows you to assess the condition of the vessels, their tone. If this information is not enough, a computer or magnetic resonance tomography may be required. An electrocardiogram can be very informative, allowing you to assess the main indicators of heart function. An ultrasound of the heart, an electroencephalogram, allowing you to assess the condition of the cerebral vessels and their functional activity may be required.

Differential diagnosis

The basis of differential diagnostics is the need to differentiate primary pathology from secondary pathology, which is only one of the symptoms of diseases of other organs.

If there is a suspicion that blood pressure surges are a secondary pathology developing as a result of a gastrointestinal disease, specific studies are carried out. The main and most informative method of examining the gastrointestinal tract is gastroscopy. During this procedure, the esophagus, stomach and duodenum are examined through a special instrument - a gastroscope. The patient is forced to swallow the gastroscope. At the end there is a camera that allows you to visualize the image, study the structural features, the state of the internal organs.

The advantage of this method is that it allows for a thorough examination of the walls of the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. It is possible to detect inflammation, erosions, incipient ulcers, and bleeding. This is the only method that allows for the diagnosis of tumors at the earliest stages of their development and even at the stage of inception.

This is also the main method of research due to the fact that it allows not only diagnostic measures to be carried out, but also a therapeutic procedure. For example, if polyps are detected, they can be removed immediately. If bleeding vessels are detected, they can be coagulated. Small erosions and mechanical damage are cauterized. Also, during the procedure, a biopsy can be taken, during which a piece of mucous membrane is taken for further histological examination. A scraping can be taken from the mucous membrane for further detection of Helicobacter microorganisms, which are the causative agents of gastritis and peptic ulcer disease.

If there is a lack of information, an ultrasound or X-ray examination can be performed. These methods make it possible to study internal organs from a different angle and to study many physiological processes in dynamics.

If there is a suspicion that pressure surges are caused by a pathology of the urinary system, a study of the kidneys and urinary tract is carried out: ultrasound of the kidneys, urine tests, including daily monitoring. Various functional tests may be required.

If there is a suspicion that the pressure jumps as a result of pathologies of the reproductive system, appropriate studies are carried out aimed at detecting pathologies of the genitals, hormonal background. An analysis is carried out for hormones, hidden infections. For men, a colonoscopy and ultrasound are carried out, which make it possible to exclude such pathologies as prostatitis, adenoma, and prostate gland disorders.

For women, hysteroscopy is performed, which allows assessing the condition of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Ultrasound can be informative. Abdominal or transvaginal ultrasound is used, depending on the purpose of the study.

Treatment blood pressure spikes

Treatment is primarily aimed at eliminating the cause that causes pressure surges. If this is a secondary pathology, the underlying disease that causes the pressure surges is treated. In this case, symptomatic therapy may be ineffective.

If pressure surges are a primary pathology, treatment is carried out aimed at normalizing vascular tone, increasing their elasticity, and normalizing heart activity. Symptomatic therapy, which often includes means aimed at normalizing blood pressure, can be effective.

If necessary, additional measures are taken to increase the overall endurance of the body and its resistance to diseases. Massage, acupuncture, and reflexology have proven themselves to be effective. It is also recommended to do therapeutic exercise. Breathing exercises, relaxation practices, meditation, and aromatherapy have a positive effect on the condition of blood vessels.

What to do in case of pressure surges?

In case of pressure surges, you should first of all consult a doctor and undergo an examination, which will allow you to identify their cause, make a correct diagnosis, and select the appropriate treatment. It is also necessary to constantly monitor your blood pressure, your body condition, and follow all your doctor's recommendations. You should avoid stress and overexertion.

First aid for a sudden jump in pressure

Depending on which direction the pressure jump occurred, appropriate assistance is provided. First of all, you need to measure the pressure. If the pressure is low, you need to drink a caffeine tablet, lie down. You can also drink strong coffee or tea. If symptoms such as dizziness or loss of consciousness appear, you need to urgently call an ambulance. Before the doctors arrive, provide access to fresh air.

If the pressure is high, you should immediately give a drug that helps lower the pressure: enap, enalapril, dibazol, captopril and others. If possible, drink a sedative or tea with mint chamomile, which calm the body and reduce vascular tone. If the condition worsens and the pressure rises above 140-150 mm Hg, call an ambulance.

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Medicines

Any medications can be taken only after consulting a doctor. This is due to the fact that it is necessary to first conduct a comprehensive diagnosis, determine the cause of pressure surges, and only after that can the appropriate treatment be selected. You need to be careful with medications for normalizing pressure. They can have numerous side effects, can cause complications for the heart and blood vessels, other organs. They can be addictive, do not combine with many other medications. Overdose is dangerous due to serious complications, including death.

In case of high blood pressure, a single dose of captopril, half or a whole tablet, is recommended.

For high blood pressure, you can also take enap, or enalapril. These drugs are analogs. Take 1 tablet, then consult a doctor. It has a diuretic effect, so people with kidney and urinary tract pathology should take it with caution.

With high blood pressure, it is advisable to take dibazol, which helps to reduce blood pressure. Take 1 tablet when blood pressure increases.

If your blood pressure is low, you need to drink 1 tablet of caffeine. It increases blood pressure and normalizes vascular tone. If your blood pressure is slightly lower, you can drink coffee, which also contains caffeine and increases vascular tone.

Concor for pressure surges

Concor is a drug intended for long-term treatment of the cardiovascular system. It is important to understand that this is a prolonged-action drug, it will not have an immediate effect. Usually, the effect of the drug is felt only 15 days after the start of treatment. Take 5-10 mg per day. The minimum dosage is 2.5 mg. You can start with it, gradually increasing the dosage. Not used if you have a pacemaker.

Vitamins

In case of pressure changes, it is recommended to take vitamins. They normalize metabolism in the body, increase resistance, and normalize basic metabolic processes. It is recommended to take in a daily dosage:

  • Vitamin PP – 60 mg
  • Vitamin H – 150 mcg
  • Vitamin C – 1000 mg
  • Vitamin E – 45 mg.

Physiotherapy treatment

Various methods of physiotherapeutic treatment are used. Acupuncture, point massage, and reflexology have proven themselves well. These methods are based on the impact on biologically active points, stimulation of the body's natural defense mechanisms and reserves.

Massage is also used, which normalizes the body's condition, activates blood circulation, normalizes muscle and vascular tone, restores hormonal balance and the nervous system.

In some cases, electrophoresis can be used, in which drugs are introduced into the body under the action of microcurrents through the surface of the skin and mucous membranes. This promotes accelerated absorption of drugs, their precise penetration into the required tissues. A smaller dosage of the drug is required, and accordingly, the risk of side effects is reduced.

Folk remedies

Folk remedies have proven themselves to be effective in treating pressure surges.

Aloe helps to reduce blood pressure. It can be taken in various forms: as juice, added to tea, as part of nutritional mixtures. You can try a mixture that normalizes blood pressure and maintains blood vessels in normal tone.

To prepare, you will need 100 grams of raisins, dried apricots, and prunes. Mix all these ingredients thoroughly and mince them. Then add 3-4 tablespoons of honey and about 50 ml of aloe juice. Mix and let it brew for 2-3 days. Drink a tablespoon daily.

Aloe juice has also proven itself well. To prepare, squeeze the juice from juicy aloe leaves. Add 1 teaspoon of aloe to 50 ml of juice, mix thoroughly and drink 1 teaspoon twice a day.

Aronia, or black chokeberry, reduces blood pressure. It is recommended to take 50 grams of fruit three times a day, before meals, for 28 days.

Schisandra infusion is used for low blood pressure. It is recommended to take it as an infusion: 100 grams of fruit is poured with 500 ml of vodka or alcohol. Infuse for 24 hours, take 1 tablespoon twice a day.

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Herbal treatment

Milk thistle decoction is taken for low blood pressure. For 1 tablespoon you need 200 ml of boiling water. You need to pour boiling water over the herb and let it brew for an hour. Drink a tablespoon three times a day.

Rhodiola rosea significantly increases blood pressure in hypotension. It is taken as an infusion: 5 grams of the herb per glass of vodka or alcohol, poured in, infused for 24 hours. Take a teaspoon three times a day.

To reduce blood pressure, a decoction of hawthorn is recommended. Pour about 100 grams of fruit with two glasses of water, leave until the morning. Then in the morning, start boiling the fruit in the same water. Bring to a boil, then boil for 2-3 minutes. You need to stir constantly during cooking. Take a glass a day.

Homeopathy

Homeopathic remedies should be taken with caution. They have side effects, in particular, causing addiction, affecting other organs. It is necessary to take with precautions: only after prior consultation with a doctor.

Magnolia infusion is taken to reduce blood pressure, one tablespoon per day. It can be bought ready-made at the pharmacy, or you can make it yourself. For preparation, you need 1 kg of magnolia flowers. Pour a liter of vodka, leave for 21 days.

Also, for hypertension, take an infusion of oak bark. To prepare, pour 10 grams of bark with 200 ml of vodka, leave for 3 days, drink a tablespoon three times a day.

To increase blood pressure, take an infusion of the high zamaniha. To prepare the infusion, pour 10 grams of roots with a glass of alcohol or vodka. Drink a tablespoon three times a day.

Immortelle is also taken for hypotension. To prepare a decoction, take 10 grams of inflorescences and pour a glass of boiling water over them. Take a third of a glass twice a day.

Nutrition during pressure surges

In case of pressure surges, it is necessary to follow a diet. The food should be complete, contain a full set of necessary vitamins and microelements, as well as fats, carbohydrates, proteins. Dishes should be boiled or steamed, should not contain spices, seasonings. In case of high blood pressure, it is necessary to completely exclude or minimize salt consumption. In case of low blood pressure, it is recommended to drink coffee, strong tea. In case of high blood pressure, these products are excluded.

Diet for pressure surges

Meals should be fractional, at least 5-6 times a day. The stomach should not be overloaded. An approximate menu for 1 day looks like this:

  • Breakfast

A glass of tea/coffee/cocoa/chicory (depending on the pressure). If the pressure is high, tea and coffee are excluded, only chicory, cocoa, and other drinks are allowed.

Ham omelette, boiled egg, piece of bread.

  • Lunch

Cream soup, croutons.

  • Dinner

Broth with dumplings. Rice porridge, steamed cutlet, grated carrots. Drink.

  • Second lunch

Chicken cutlet under a cheese crust, a piece of bread. Fresh tomato.

  • Dinner

Oatmeal porridge with fruit pieces. Apple puree. Drink.

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