Health

I learned some simple relaxation/meditation tricks I do before heading into the doctor's office. This helped keep my bp readings in the range of 140/90 in the office. It's usually 120/75 ish at home.

My bp was spiking in April when I saw my PCP and since my weight is way up (weigh up?) since last year, I agreed to try meds until I could get my act together enough to lose some weight. I'm on generic Hyzaar and that has helped. But it still spikes when somebody else takes my BP!

If you want to try it, here's some tips:
1. Try the free Calm app for a simple breathing exercise relaxing video. Look on YouTube or search podcasts for guided meditations if you want to get into it more deeply.
2. Get to the appointment early enough to sit in my car and meditate/relax for 10 minutes. If you find a favorite youtube video or podcast meditation, you can cue that up to listen to in your car.
3. Have relaxing music or something to read on my phone or tablet if they typically have a long wait. Use headphones!
4. Ask to have them do two bp readings - one before you see the doctor and one after. Do a breathing exercise with your eyes closed while they're taking the reading(s).

The new automated bp machines are incredibly painful for me - a lot of times it's the pain that's driving my bp up. I usually ask for a manual reading and that's much better for me.

Good luck!!