The majority of hypertension diagnosed in U.S. is not attributed to any one cause, although there are different conditions and factors which can contribute to high blood pressure. When HBP is not directly associated with a specific cause it is called Essential Hypertension. There are several factors which can affect blood pressure.
- Alcohol – Moderate drinking has not been linked to high blood pressure, but alcohol consumption of more then 1 or 2 drinks per day can be a factor.
- Overweight and obesity – According to the US surgeon general’s report, high blood pressure is twice as common in obese adults (20% above average weight) then those at a healthy weight.
- Diet – Consuming foods and drinks high in sodium can raise blood pressure, whereas a lack of potassium, calcium and magnesium in the diet can also cause hypertension.
- Stress – Although hypertension does not cause stress (i.e. you can have high blood pressure and be calm), stress can be a causal factor for developing hypertension. Certain stress producing conditions like white coat syndrome can temporarily elevate blood pressure. Unhealthy methods of dealing with stress through food, alcohol or smoking can increase blood pressure.
- Lack of physical activity – A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of hypertension. Daily exercise reduces blood pressure.
- Smoking – Smoking can increase the risk of secondary cardiovascular complications. Each cigarette temporarily increases your blood pressure several minutes after each smoke. When smoking is combined with coffee drinking the daytime systolic pressure has been noted to rise in study patients.
- Age – Both men and women over 50 have a higher rate of hypertension. It’s important to have regular checkups and make diet and life style choices that promote heart health.
- Genetics/ Family history of high blood pressure –If one or both parents had high blood pressure there is twice the probability of children having hypertension.
- Race – There is a greater risk of hypertension in the US among African Americans then Caucasian or Asian Americans.
Secondary Hypertension – If high blood pressure occurs due to another condition or factor, it is called secondary hypertension. Both conditions need to be treated. Often, as the primary condition is dealt with, the blood pressure may lower and in some cases return to normal levels.
- Diabetes – Hypertension is commonly found in patients with diabetes. Losing weight, eating a healthy diet, increasing physical activity and taking medication helps bring down HBP in diabetics.
- Kidney Disorders - Various kidney disorders can cause HBP. Some conditions impair the kidney’s ability to remove salt and water from the body which increases the blood volume causing the blood pressure to rise.
- Birth control pills - Pills containing estrogen can cause hypertension. Regular check ups when taking the pill is advised.
- Pregnancy – High blood pressure caused by pregnancy is called gestational hypertension, or preeclampsia. This condition is serious and can even be life threatening to mother and baby.
- Arteriosclerosis
- Coarctation of the aorta – This is a congenital defect which causes the narrowing of the aorta.
- Cocaine use
- Cushing Syndrome – A condition which causes high levels of cortisol in the body.
- Medications – Certain medications can increase your blood pressure such as appetite suppressants, corticosteroids, and some migraine and cold medication. If you have hypertension or have a history of hypertension, check with your doctor before taking new medications. (This includes over the counter medications.)