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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Has anyone else had issues with their BP being high? I'm currently taking Nifedipine 60 mg for Raynauds and HTN. It will randomly spike.

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Parsons, TN
April 24
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A MyLupusTeam Member

I also have high blood pressure, as do many lupies, McKayla--especially those with kidney disease. I hope you're monitoring it a few times weekly and recording the readings for your doctor to review, and it's worth a visit if you're seeing spikes over 140/90, as excellent BP control is important for us.

The AI answer is good, and in addition, avoiding alcohol and keeping our weight as close to ideal as possible helps. Increasing potassium intake in our diet (bananas, oranges, etc.) also helps. Eating out can cause spikes, as restaurant food is often high in salt (except for salads). Stress can also cause spikes.

April 25
A MyLupusTeam Member

I just got added my third blood pressure med...be sure to bring this up to your doctor.

April 28
A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes my blood pressure gets very high. I'm on two blood pressure medications

April 28
A MyLupusTeam Member

Me currently dealing with BP issues and they're investigating why

April 28
MyLupusTeam

Random blood pressure spikes are a real concern for many people with lupus, and you're definitely not alone in dealing with this. High blood pressure is actually quite common with lupus, and there are a few reasons it can fluctuate unexpectedly.

Some lupus-related factors that can cause BP to spike include:

- Corticosteroids Show Full Answer

Random blood pressure spikes are a real concern for many people with lupus, and you're definitely not alone in dealing with this. High blood pressure is actually quite common with lupus, and there are a few reasons it can fluctuate unexpectedly.

Some lupus-related factors that can cause BP to spike include:

- Corticosteroids (like prednisone) — long-term use can raise blood pressure
- Cyclosporine — an immunosuppressant known to increase BP and strain the kidneys
- Lupus nephritis — when lupus affects the kidneys, blood pressure regulation can be disrupted
- Lupus inflammation itself — active disease can impact cardiovascular function It's worth having a conversation with your doctor about what might be triggering those spikes specifically. They may want to review your full medication list, check kidney function, or adjust your treatment plan.

In the meantime, lifestyle habits that can support better BP control include:

- Reducing sodium/processed foods
- Low-impact exercise like walking or swimming
- Stress management techniques
- Staying well hydrated

Keeping lupus well-controlled overall can also help reduce BP fluctuations. A cardiologist may be a helpful addition to your care team if spikes continue.

April 24

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