Even if you are being treated for your hypertension, certain conditions can cause a spike in blood pressure during exercise. You can control some of these factors, thereby reducing your health risk. You needn't refrain from exercise but rather take the necessary precautions. You also might want to discuss your treatment options with your doctor if you have concerns.
Improper Breathing Technique
Improper breathing technique can cause dangerous spikes in blood pressure even in healthy individuals. A 1995 study by Loma Linda University in California looked at the effects of breathing during weightlifting. Blood pressure readings as high as 370 mmHg over 360 mmHg were recorded in people who tried to exhale through a closed mouth. The first number is the systolic blood pressure and the next number is the diastolic blood pressure. When participants performed the same exercises with slow exhalation through an open glottis, blood pressure readings reached 198 mmHg over 175 mmHg. The glottis is the opening in your voice box that controls the sounds you make.
State of Fitness
Your state of fitness also can affect blood pressure in treated hypertensive patients. Patients who are out of shape have not adapted to the rigors of exercise that can lower blood pressure while exercising. Regular exercise causes your blood vessels to become more flexible, leading to a decrease in blood pressure even while at rest. You should, however, begin slowly with a new exercise program and refrain from vigorous exercise until you have been working out regularly for at least six months.
Stimulants
Ingesting stimulants also can cause higher blood pressure readings in high blood pressure patients. Caffeine, for example, stimulates the release of adrenaline into the bloodstream, which can in turn elevate your heart rate. To avoid spikes in blood pressure, you should avoid consumption of caffeinated beverages or energy drinks. You also need to take care with some medications, such as antihistamines and asthma medications, which also might have a stimulating effect. As a hypertensive patient, some over-the-counter medications or dietary supplements such as ginseng are inappropriate for someone with your condition. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions regarding these medications.
Blood Pressure Control
Because exercise increases blood pressure, you might have concerns whether it is safe for you to work out. Part of your body's response might have to do with the type of blood pressure medication you are taking. A 2011 study by UT Southwestern Medical Center looked at the effects of two common hypertension medications on blood pressure during exercise. Researchers found that use of an angiotensin receptor blocker was more effective at controlling blood pressure during exercise than a thiazide-type diuretic. An angiotensin receptor blocker inhibits the effect of a protein called angiotensin that causes the narrowing of blood vessels. A diuretic reduces blood pressure by reducing blood volume through water loss.
References
- PubMed.gov: Influence of Breathing Technique on Arterial Blood Pressure during Heavy Weight Lifting; J. Narloch and M. Brandstater; May 1995
- "Principles of Anatomy and Physiology"; G. Tortora et al; 2005
- American Heart Association: Target Heart Rates
- LEDA at Harvard Law School; Reconsidering Caffeine; David Mrazik; April 27, 2004
- MayoClinic.com; Supplements to Avoid When Dealing with High Blood Pressure; Brent Bauer; March 12, 2010
- "Journal of Physiology"; Functional sympatholysis is impaired in hypertensive humans; W. Vongpatanasin, et al.; January 2011
