Read The Signs

Last week, I experienced a timely lesson. For the past month, we have been monitoring our vital signs in different conditions during our online fitness classes. At times, some made unexpected observations, and even discovered important findings to discuss their healtcare team. These moments helped prove the point that we do not always feel symptoms when our vitals are abnormal. However, sometimes there are signs... 

After signing off from Core & More class last Thursday, I felt exhausted and wanted to crawl into bed for a nap. Instead, I climbed into my truck and drove about 35 miles to a dental appointment. Although I could drive safely, my brain felt foggy and my eyelids felt heavy. After taking a seat in the examination chair, the hygienist strapped on a digital wrist cuff to measure my vital signs. My heart rate was normal, but the blood pressure reading was incredibly low. The hygienist and I both did a double take, and almost simultaneously suggested taking another reading. "That can't be right!" The second reading was similar. In her playful California way, she said, "You look pretty chill, but not that chill." Not trusting her equipment, she tried again using a different cuff from the neighboring exam room. Again, remarkably low blood pressure. By then, we were both convinced the readings were correct. 

Although we had been monitoring vital signs in class throughout the week, I had not checked my blood pressure that day. If I had, I might have realized that my fatigue and brain fog were likely due to low pressure. With a little movement, caffeine, salt, hydration, and a heightened sense of safety awareness, I bounced back to normal before driving home. 

After that experience, I am less quick to blame fatigue on how I slept the night before, or how intensely I exercised. Now I feel more likely to check my vital signs when I feel especially tired, excited, energetic, worn down, anxious, or relaxed. By knowing my baseline vital signs and observing changes, I can support my body's needs more meaningfully from day to day.