My bp spiked to 157/102 and am on bp meds. It came down after 20 min. Should I be worried?

Hello november,

My answer, I don't think, will be particularly satisfying: it depends.

The circumstances surrounding your blood pressure spike are important.  Are you feeling sick?  Were you exercising?  Were you feeling more stressed that usual?

Second, the associated symptoms are even more important.  While not a terribly high blood pressure spike, if you experienced severe headaches, altered mental status, changes in vision, chest pain, or SOB, then it is sign of more serious blood pressure problems.

If you are experiencing the above symptoms or do not feel well, you should call your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room.  However, if this was an isolated spike and it does not return, then it likely only need to be brought up at your next doctor's visit.

To your health,

Neil MD