My BP has spiked up recently and I wondered if anyone has any advice about other tests, in addition to routine blood tests, I should have to make sure I really have primary HT and not secondary?

I am only 42, and was active until my 30's. I had really low blood pressure until I had gained some weight, had two kids, and stopped exercising regularly. Recently I went in for a physical and the doctor told me I have high blood pressure. (The diagnosis has made me very anxious, which can't be good for my pressure!) My readings were in the 145-160/90-110 range for a couple of weeks, instead of the 120/80's or so they had been for a few years. I have noticed some hormone shifts and my doctor had put me back on birth control pills last year to control excess bleeding. I have also lost 20 pounds over the last year and a half (almost down to where I should be), just cut out cola entirely, and I was starting to exercise a little more this summer. I generally thought I was feeling better, so I was surprised at the high BP! The doctor did not suggest I stop the BC pills, but put me on a amlodipine to get my pressure down. (It has not gone down much yet, but I've only been taking it a week. The symptoms have not been fun, so I hope I really have to take it!) I know BC pills can cause higher BP, and have heard that the pills are not a replacement for natural estrogen. Any other thoughts? Thanks!