# Unintentional Self-Experimentation with Blood Pressure Meds
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Understanding the Experiment
While on my way to work, I suddenly realized I had forgotten to take my blood pressure medication. It's just a small dose of 25 mg losartan, and I didn't think it would significantly impact me. We often fall into the trap of believing that if we're feeling okay, we no longer need our medication, right? I decided to conduct my own little "experiment" to see what would happen.
By midday, my blood pressure readings were hovering around 140/90. I knew it would likely rise if I started experiencing headaches. Sure enough, by lunchtime, I had developed a headache.
When I finally returned home, my blood pressure soared to an alarming 210/120—higher than I had ever experienced. Although I should have sought emergency care, I chose to calm myself down instead. Eventually, my reading dropped to 170/100, but that still wasn't acceptable.
My husband chastised me for not asking him to bring my medication. It hadn't even crossed my mind to reach out for help. I have a strong aversion to the idea of taking additional medication, yet it seems that's the direction I'm headed.
Managing the Symptoms
It was still too early for my emergency meds designed to control my blood pressure and anxiety. We hadn't had dinner yet, and taking the medication would have rendered me ineffective for the rest of the day. So, I tried to cope with the elevated blood pressure as best as I could.
I noticed a new symptom indicating my blood pressure was high: my eyes were watering incessantly. According to Dr. Google, hypertensive crises can lead to eye issues. Fantastic. Now, along with my constant anxiety about experiencing a severe stroke, I had to worry about potential vision loss and kidney damage from these hypertensive episodes.
On days when my blood pressure spikes, I feel utterly drained. That particular evening, I dozed off on the sofa before heading to bed. Generally, I don't sleep well after napping, but I managed to fall asleep with the help of some medication.
Reflecting on the Results
I wish I could confidently say that I can manage my blood pressure without medication, but my self-experiment didn't yield the results I hoped for. Despite my active lifestyle and a plant-based diet that keeps my cholesterol low, my anxiety remains a formidable adversary. This diagnosis is incredibly frustrating, and I wish I didn't have to face it.
Anxiety is a burden that no one wants to carry.
This week, I have another doctor's appointment to explore options for managing my anxiety. Let's be honest: there are only so many deep-breathing exercises and moments of meditation that can effectively help, especially during a hectic workday.
However, if introducing an additional medication alleviates my anxiety and helps stabilize my blood pressure, it might help me avoid these frequent hypertensive crises in the future.
As for my little experiment, I certainly don’t recommend trying this at home. If you require blood pressure medication, please take it.
My anxiety has escalated significantly since a traumatic incident involving my neighbor.
Do you experience anxiety or high blood pressure? If so, what strategies do you use to cope?
I sincerely hope everyone is safe and healthy.
Originally published at http://annethevegan.com on February 26, 2024.