Any ideas how to stop fear of blood pressure check?

I have had white coat syndrome many years. My actual blood pressure is ok but as soon as ANY cuff goes on my arm, my heart races. I'm afraid of it being high, which of course MAKES it high. It's self fulfilling prophecy. The root fear is that I should be thinner (Even though my blood pressure has always been ok).

My mom would ridicule that I should always catch everything that could possibly be wrong, health wise. It was oppressive and made me fear many things, especially blood pressure because I could have *prevented* it, if it were to be high. I really don't want to fear this anymore. I've even avoided going on doctor visits because I know they'll do blood pressure checks. I brought it up to my therapist but they don't help... many times they just nod. 😧 Any ideas to lessen the fear?

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Jenny1234 · 56-60, F

Your blood pressure goes up because of this white coat syndrome then I wouldn’t be worrying about it so much. But then again, I tend not to worry about things.

Coralmist · 41-45, F

@Jenny1234 It's just I have a physical coming up, and the fear will occur again and then because it's been multiple times, she wants me on a small dose blood pressure pill..just for precautions. Even my therapist thought that was a bit much.

Jenny1234 · 56-60, F

@Coralmist did you tell your doctor that you think your blood pressure goes up just because of the fear of the appointment?

Coralmist · 41-45, F

@Jenny1234 I did yes but she said because I occasionally get anxious in other areas too outside the doctor office, that's why she wanted to try small dose. But she's someone who is overly cautious. I've read anxiety does not harm the heart ....