If blood pressure and heart rate increase 7 days after stroke is this dangerous?

Stacey
Staceyon August 22, 2021
1 Comment
My father had a stroke 7 days ago. He is now out of hospital and on high blood pressure tablets but last night while sitting in a chair his blood pressure measured firstly 194/84 and 102 beats per minute. This rose but then started to come down over a half hour period. They then took the measurement on the opposite arm and it was even better. 156/71 88 beats/ min
1 Responses
StrokeLine avatar
StrokeLine

Hi Stacey,

 

Thank you for your very important question.

 

High blood pressure is the leading modifiable reason for stroke and therefore it is important to manage BP before and after a stroke.

 

The ideal target for blood pressure will depend on several factors including age but the ‘lower the better’ approach is recommended with national targets suggesting this is <140mmHg systolic. However, variation in BP is normal depending on activity level.

 

Very high BP readings (>180/90mmHg) at rest are a concern and should be discussed further with your father’s doctor. A fast heart rate at rest (e.g. >100) is also worth discussing with your father’s doctor as this can sometimes indicate atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm that is a potential cause of stroke.

 

I would highly suggest your father book into see his GP asap. Health direct is also available on 1800 022 222 to speak with a nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For any FAST signs or other signs of stroke, call triple zero (000) immediately.

 

For support on recovery post stroke, feel free to call StrokeLine 1800 787 653 (Monday- Friday 9am-5pm AEST) or email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au

 

 

With kind regards,

Kath, StrokeLine

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