7 Causes of High Blood Pressure

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, affecting millions globally. While lifestyle factors like diet and exercise are well-known contributors, several overlooked factors can also play a significant role. Addressing these can lead to better management and prevention of hypertension.

1. Primary Aldosteronism (PA)

Primary Aldosteronism (PA) is a condition where the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, leading to sodium retention, potassium loss, and elevated blood pressure. Despite being a common cause of secondary hypertension, it is often undiagnosed. Improved screening techniques and new medications are being developed for better diagnosis and treatment ➊ ➍.

2. Sleep Disorders

Chronic sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and sleep apnea, significantly increase the risk of hypertension. Sleep apnea causes intermittent hypoxia during sleep, which elevates blood pressure. Proper management of sleep disorders can lead to substantial improvements in blood pressure control ➋ ➌ ➎.

3. Environmental Factors

Long-term exposure to air pollution is a significant but often overlooked risk factor for hypertension. Chronic exposure to polluted air causes inflammation and oxidative stress, increasing blood pressure. Other non-modifiable factors include age, family history, and co-existing conditions like diabetes or kidney disease ➊ ➏.

4. Diet and Sodium Intake

High sodium intake from processed foods and low potassium intake from fruits and vegetables are significant contributors to hypertension. Many people consume excess sodium unknowingly through processed and pre-packaged foods. Potassium helps balance sodium levels in cells, and a deficiency can lead to high blood pressure. Awareness of dietary habits and adjusting them can help manage blood pressure ➋ ➌.

5. Chronic Stress

Chronic stress contributes to hypertension by inducing harmful behaviors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and increased alcohol consumption. Stress triggers the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which temporarily increase blood pressure. Long-term stress can lead to sustained hypertension. Managing stress through healthy coping strategies, such as exercise and meditation, is crucial ➏ ➑.

6. Certain Medications

Various prescription and over-the-counter medications can raise blood pressure. These include antidepressants, decongestants, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Discussing potential blood pressure effects of medications with a healthcare provider can help manage this risk ➌ ➐.

7. Social and Economic Factors

Social determinants of health, including income, education level, and living conditions, play a significant role in hypertension. Stressors related to job conditions, such as shift work and job insecurity, can increase the risk of high blood pressure. Research indicates that experiencing discrimination and poverty is linked to higher hypertension rates ➊.

Understanding and addressing these often-overlooked factors can lead to better management and prevention of hypertension. Regular screenings, managing sleep health, reducing environmental exposure, maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and discussing medication side effects with a healthcare provider are all important steps in controlling blood pressure.