High blood pressure

[baby.3]

Hi

I went to the GP Monday due to having a 4 day headache that wouldn't shift for love nor money. He asked me loads of questions and basically sent me on my way with low dose codeine. But before leaving he took my blood pressure which was 142/90, my normal reading it 124/74. The doctor was really dismissive of the reading said it was likely due to white coat syndrome. I argued that I'd never had a reading that high before either at GP or midwives. But he dismissed me so I left.

I've since borrowed my aunts BP machine and so far the systolic number fluctuates between 128 and 145 and diastolic has been consistent at about 92. My reading just now is 128/92, that's after resting for 30 mins.

I'm not seeing my midwife until 20th Feb. Should I ring them and let them know about the high BP readings or leave it be and see what happens next month? How high does it need to be before I need to worry? I should mention that I actually feel OK today, no headache, no swelling or nausea/vomiting etc

Thanks in advance for any info xx

 

[LucyC]

Hi baby, how frustrating that the gp was so dismissive. Personally I’d call and mention it to the midwife just so she’s aware. I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about but it can’t hurt to let her know xx

 

[Kitana]

I would definitely let the midwife know. What an unprofessional doctor!
I had high blood pressure a bit like yours on the day of my daughter's birth, they kept me on the monitor for quite a while but went down after an hour or so, was probably just the whirlwind of everything happening at the same time! They have to make sure it's not pre-eclampsia. It can never hurt to get some reassurance!x

 

[Sugarpop]

I’d tell your midwife and go from there. I think they’ll want to monitor you in some way.

 

[Radleycat]

Did the gp ask you to go back at all and get it taken again? Also, did they dip your urine for protein?
I'd give your midwife a call. I'm sure it's fine but I think they will have a better idea than the gp. Consistent increased BP needs checking out just to be on the safe side.
It's a good sign if the headaches have stopped though. I'm not sure how common the hand and feet swelling is for it, i'd expect it to get picked up before that was a noticeable sign.
If I came to you as a patient, I'd be ringing the midwife or maternity assessment unit (but they only take people over 16 weeks) just to get double checked xx.