Hi, I am a 42 year old women, 68 kilos, 5 foot 8. I have Lupus and always had low blood pressure (100 over 55) The past few weeks it has jumped to around 135 over 105. It has times spiked to 148 over 120. When it was its highest I had chest, shoulder and neck pain. I did go to hospital but the wait was 6 hours and decided to go home. Should I be overly concerned and is it safe to wait to see my Reumatoligist in a couple of weeks. I have been under a great deal of stress the past few months. Your advice would be great. Regards Rebecca
Good evening Rebecca. Well knowing your past history of lupus and sudden spiking of blood pressure, do consult a rheumatologist as soon as you can. I won't suggest you wait too long. With lupus, we do know that Disease flares are expected. With spiking blood pressure, it is mandatory to see that it is not affecting your kidneys. Renal involvement can present as a rise in blood pressure initially. Consult your rheumatologist urgently and meanwhile get your blood counts, urine routine checked. Hope the information was useful.