It's interesting that you brought up this topic now. I am currently in the middle of keeping a blood pressure log ordered by my nephrologist/hypertension specialist. I never had high blood pressure until about 1 1/2 to 2 years ago (I'm now 49 1/2), then suddenly it increased. A year ago, it would be around 130/95, or the like. Both my GP and nephrologist noted it being high, but didn't suggest any blood pressure medication, just diet/exercise. Then about 1 1/2 weeks ago I went to an urgent care center because of an injury to my back/shoulder/neck area. I was quite revved up, at the time. My blood pressure reached a whopping 200/100 something (I forget the exact reading). They noted it, but didn't express extreme concern. Then coincidently, I had a phone appointment with my nephrologist and he ordered the blood pressure log.

So far after six days logging, my averages have been in the mid 130s/90, with some over 140/92 or a little higher. I talk to him again soon, and will send my log. He might prescribe something. Certainly the high stress I've been under has exacerbated my blood pressure, but as I wrote, it had been too high even before.

I have certainly been exercising a lot because of my move preparations. My diet, however, has not been perfect. Nevertheless, I did lose the weight I put on during my recent trip abroad. I do wish to adjust my diet again. I had been eating healthily prior to my vacation, for about 3 months. That helped lower my cholesterol and triglycerides, but didn't quite normalize them.

I think the increases in my cholesterol/triglycerides/blood pressure/A1C are partially due to my genes, partially my weight, and partially my antipsychotic (Seroquel XR). I have been my current weight many times in the past, but with perfect bloodwork results and blood pressure. They've been normal at times, also on Seroquel XR, though not at my currently higher doses of 650 to 700 mg per day. Right now I am about 11 pounds (5 kg) overweight. That is about 2 lbs above the "average American woman weight". [I do think the BMI scale has imperfections.] Regardless, if I lose 11 lbs or more, I expect things to improve, additionally. But be normal? Not sure.