Sudden hypertension

I went to my doctor three weeks ago for some nerve/neck pain that had been going on for three or so weeks.  At the start of that visit, my blood pressure was taken.  I was in some pain so the doctor attributed my increased bp of 133/89 from pain.  I was prescribed neurontin for the nerve pain. Three weeks later, I returned to the doctor in a greater deal of pain with a new symptom of horrible headaches.  Again, my bp was taken and came back as 170/99, which, of course, scared me to death.  He felt that part of this was due to pain, but is unsure of the root cause.  I have been referred to a neurologist for the neck pain and should see him soon.  I have been checking my blood pressures at home (I am a nurse but work with babies and know nothing about this) and they have been ranging from 146/88 up to 164/104 (the higher ones are usually at night).  I have been prescribed HCTZ for the bp for now.  My quetions are such:  What would cause an increase in bp that is not going away, could my meds be causing it, could my weight all of a sudden play a factor (I am about 85lbs overweight but have been for quite some time).  I am also taking birth control and motrin and do drink about 3 cans of caffinated diet soda a day.  Or could my pregnancy induced hypertension have a role in this (I was induced at 37 weeks for high blood pressure - the baby is now 14 months old.)  Lastly, what can I do to get this pressure back down?  I had already begun a diet and excersize program approx 3 months ago and had begun to lose weight.  Any help you could give me would be very appreciated.  Thanks

[mammo]

It sounds like you're off to a good start!  Your weight plays a big part in this, and losing the weight and exercising are essential in maintaining good health. I think it all just caught up with you, and as a result you now have high BP.  Eat a healthy diet, keep exercising, especially walking, it's something you can do all the time and anywhere.  Avoid salt and caffeine. I was overweight and could not lose it.  My daughter suggested I eat small amounts every 3-4 hours (keeps your metabolism up) and walk.  I started this in Jan. and by June was down 45 lbs!  I was never hungry, and my cravings for food went away.  It was an eating lifestyle for me...no diet. Keep up the good work, keep moving, and enjoy that baby!!!!