Things That Can Increase Your Risk Of Getting High Blood Pressure
You might be more at risk if you:
- are overweight
- eat too much salt and do not eat enough fruit and vegetables
- do not do enough exercise
- drink too much alcohol or coffee
- smoke
- do not get much sleep or have disturbed sleep
- are over 65
- have a relative with high blood pressure
- are of black African or black Caribbean descent
- live in a deprived area
Making healthy lifestyle changes can sometimes help reduce your chances of getting high blood pressure and help lower your blood pressure if it’s already high.
What Are The Causes Of High Blood Pressure
Considered keeping an eye on your blood pressure? It may be a good time to start.
High blood pressure affects at least one-quarter of adults in Hong Kong and worldwide can be accounted for half of all heart attack and stroke-related deaths. Unfortunately, many people dont realise they have it as there usually are no warning signs or symptoms. The only way to be sure of knowing there is a problem is to have your blood pressure measured.
Suffering from hypertension without treatment long term can cause many problems for your body and health. It puts extra stress on the heart and blood vessels, affecting oxygen supply around your body. This can lead to diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, blindness and kidney failure. To educate our patients, heres a mini-guide to keeping your blood pressure at healthy levels.
Swelling Around Your Extremities
The kidneys filter wastes from the blood and remove excess water from the body via urine. When the kidneys arent doing their job, this fluid can stay in the system instead of being excreted. Swelling around the hands, feet, and ankles may be associated with kidney or heart failure and shouldnt be dismissed.
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Managing Low Blood Pressure
Having low blood pressure once in a while isnt likely a cause for concern.
Tell your doctor about any related symptoms. Keep a journal of your symptoms and what you were doing when they began.
This can help your doctor diagnose the cause of your low blood pressure, especially if youve tried making changes to your diet and lifestyle and still arent seeing your BP at a healthy level.
Common Causes Of High Blood Pressure Spikes
Some people with high blood pressure will experience sharp rises in their blood pressure. These spikes, which typically last only a short period of time, are also known as sudden high blood pressure. These are some possible causes:
- Caffeine
- Certain medications or combinations of medications
- Chronic kidney disease
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What Is A Kidney Infection Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment And Prevention
A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, occurs when harmful bacteria reach your kidneys as part of a urinary tract infection .
Most UTIs dont involve the kidneys. They affect only your lower urinary tract, meaning your urethra and bladder. But sometimes an infection that begins there moves into your upper urinary tract, affecting one or both kidneys.
Its also possible to get a kidney infection following surgery, if bacteria enter your body during the procedure and travel through your bloodstream to your kidneys. In this case, your lower urinary tract may not be affected.
If you have symptoms of a UTI or bladder infection such as pain with urination, smelly urine, low back pain, or discolored urine its important to seek medical treatment to prevent the infection from spreading to your kidneys.
Kidney infections can be quite painful and require prompt evaluation and treatment. If your infection isnt treated soon enough, it may permanently damage your kidneys or spread to your bloodstream, possibly leading to and the impairment of other vital organs.
What Can Cause Inflammation Of The Coronary Arteries Of The Heart
The coronary artery disease of the heart can develop when all, or most of the major blood vessels that provide heart the oxygen, nutrients and blood get damaged, blocked or suffer from any disease.
The main reason because of which the coronary artery disease takes place is due to the inflammation and plaque, also identified as cholesterol-containing deposits.
When the building of plaque occurs, the coronary arteries can get narrower. As a result, the decreased blood flow can not only result in pain in the chest but also the shortness of breath , and other signs and symptoms related to other kinds of coronary artery disease.
A heart attack can also take place because of the complete coronary artery blockage.
Though the coronary heart disease gets developed over time, at least within ten years, any person would not notice the problem until he experiences a significant blockage, angina pain or a heart attack.
Though, a lot can be done for the prevention and treatment of coronary artery disease. The considerable impact of a healthy lifestyle can take place in this regard.
The leading causes of coronary artery disease are:
- High cholesterol levels
- Smoking
- Sedentary lifestyle
The lifestyle habits that can prove essential for treating coronary artery disease and even could help in the prevention are below.
Tip: This is the Guide To Best Protein Drinks For Diabetes with 7 Best Protein Powders and Shakes with Serving Tips.
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What’s The Impact Of Having High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for developing cardiovascular diseases such as:
- coronary heart disease – where the main arteries that supply your heart become clogged up with plaques
- strokes – a serious condition where the blood supply to your brain is interrupted
- heart attacks – a serious condition where the blood supply to part of your heart is blocked
Diabetes and kidney disease are also linked to high blood pressure complications.
What Does The Research Say
Most recent efforts to examine medicinal properties of cinnamon have focused on its effect on blood sugar. Although the mechanism is unknown, some studies report cinnamon may have a beneficial effect on blood sugar control in those with diabetes. The evidence has been mixed, but one recent systemic review of ten different studies suggest that cinnamon lowers both fasting blood glucose and total cholesterol.
There is less available evidence to support claims for using cinnamon to control blood pressure. A 2012 review of three studies on the effect of cinnamon on blood pressure in patients with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes found a short-term reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, but these studies were small and more research is necessary before cinnamon can be widely recommended for blood pressure control.
A separate study, performed to examine the effect of a product containing cinnamon, calcium, and zinc, showed no reduction in blood pressure in people with hypertension and type II diabetes. Overall, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health currently advises that human studies do not support use of cinnamon for any health condition.
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How To Raise Low Blood Pressure
If youre dealing with hypotension, the first step is making an appointment with your doctor. After discussing your medical history, lifestyle, and other factors, your doctor may change your medication or suggest certain lifestyle changes to get to the root of the issue.
Its important not to stop taking any medications or change dosages without talking to a healthcare professional first. The same is true of dietary or other changes.
Why Might A Cold Medication Raise Blood Pressure
There are other treatments for your cold or flu that will not raise blood pressure.
Aspirin or acetaminophen to relieve headache or sore throat.
Saline nasal spray to relieve stuffiness.
Flush your nasal passages with a neti pot to loosen up gunk in your nose so you can blow it out more easily.
Gargle with warm saltwater to relieve a cough or scratchy throat.
Drink up: water, tea, juice, chicken broth or tomato soup, etc.
If you have a portable humidifier, put it on wherever you are, and go to bed with it.
Rest. The housework can wait.
If you have normal blood pressure, there is no reason for you to be worried over whether or not it will rise from your cold or flu. This is the bodys way of helping get rid of the illness.
Dr. Besser provides comprehensive family care, treating common and acute primary conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Her ongoing approach allows her the opportunity to provide accurate and critical diagnoses of more complex conditions and disorders.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. Shes also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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Coronavirus Kidney Damage: A Serious Sign
Organ systems like the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys rely on and support one anothers functions, so when the new coronavirus causes damage in one area, others might be at risk. The kidneys essential functions have an impact on the heart, lungs and other systems. That may be why doctors note that kidney damage arising in patients with COVID-19 is a possible warning sign of a serious, even fatal course of the disease.
Can High Blood Pressure Affect Pregnancy
High blood pressure complicates about 10% of all pregnancies. There are several different types of high blood pressure during pregnancy and they range from mild to serious. The forms of high blood pressure during pregnancy include:
Chronic hypertension: High blood pressure which is present before pregnancy.
Gestational hypertension: High blood pressure in the latter part of pregnancy.
Preeclampsia: This is a dangerous condition that typically develops in the latter half of pregnancy and results in hypertension, protein in the urine and generalized swelling in the pregnant person. It can affect other organs in the body and cause seizures .
Chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia: Pregnant people who have chronic hypertension are at increased risk for developing preeclampsia.
Your provider will check your blood pressure regularly during prenatal appointments, but if you have concerns about your blood pressure, be sure to talk with your provider.
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Drinks High In Tyramine
Tyramine 1 is an amino acid that helps regulate blood pressure. It can trigger nerve cells to release norepinephrine, a hormone that increases the heart rate and blood pressure 2.
A large dietary intake of tyramine can cause the tyramine pressor response, defined as an increase in systolic blood pressure of 30 mm Hg or more. This is especially dangerous if youre taking Monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
Therefore, what drinks contain a high amount of tyramine? Drinks high in Tyramine include:
- Fermented alcohol
- Sherry
- Vermouth
The fermented alcohol, vermouth and tap beer contain more tyramine than the others. Its safer to drink the others in moderation.
What Questions Should I Ask My Provider
- Are there supplements or non-prescription medicines that I shouldnt take?
- Can I keep taking these medicines if I get pregnant?
- What kinds of exercise should I do?
A note from Cleveland Clinic
If you dont treat high blood pressure, it can put you at risk for developing serious illnesses later in life such as heart attack, kidney failure and stroke. But if you follow your providers instructions, you can control your blood pressure. Be sure to take any medicines your provider ordered as instructed. Keep taking them even if your blood pressure numbers begin to fall into the normal range. Living a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy foods, watching your weight and getting regular exercise is also a great way to help control your blood pressure.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 09/21/2021.
References
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Regular Blood Pressure Checks If Diagnosed With High Blood Pressure
If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, your blood pressure will need to be closely monitored until it is brought under control.
After your blood pressure has been controlled, your GP or practice nurse will measure your blood pressure at agreed regular intervals .
It is important you attend these appointments to ensure your blood pressure is being maintained within an acceptable range.
The Body’s Control Of Blood Pressure
The body has many mechanisms to control blood pressure. The body can change the
-
Amount of blood the heart pumps
-
Diameter of arteries
-
Volume of blood in the bloodstream
To increase blood pressure, the heart can pump more blood by pumping more forcefully or more rapidly. Small arteries can narrow , forcing the blood from each heartbeat through a narrower space than normal. Because the space in the arteries is narrower, the same amount of blood passing through them increases the blood pressure. Veins can constrict to reduce their capacity to hold blood, forcing more blood into the arteries. As a result, blood pressure increases. Fluid can be added to the bloodstream to increase blood volume and thus increase blood pressure.
To decrease blood pressure, the heart can pump less forcefully or rapidly, arterioles and veins can widen , and fluid can be removed from the bloodstream.
These mechanisms are controlled by the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system Autonomic nervous system The peripheral nervous system consists of more than 100 billion nerve cells that run throughout the body like strings, making connections with the brain, other parts of the body, and… read more and by the kidneys. The sympathetic division uses several means to temporarily increase blood pressure during the fight-or-flight response .
Angiotensin II helps increase blood pressure by
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#bpraisers: Things That Raise Your Blood Pressure
Keeping blood pressure under control can mean adding things to your life, like exercise, that help lower it. It can also mean avoiding things that raise it. Here is a list of BP raisers, and information on how to keep your pressure from getting too high.
Just a few minutes of light activity for people who sit most of the day can lower blood pressure in those with Type 2 diabetes.
Does Using Cinnamon Bring About Side Effects
In human studies, participants used varying amounts of cinnamon, from a fraction of a teaspoon to two teaspoons each day. Side effects were rare when cinnamon is added to food in normal doses.
Cinnamon is also available as a dietary supplement, but it is important to be cautious, since dietary supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. If you are taking other medications or herbal supplements, always consult with your healthcare providerinteractions may occur between supplements and medications, resulting in adverse outcomes.
Although cinnamon is generally considered safe for short-term use by most people, some may have an allergic reaction to the spice. Cinnamon also contains a chemical known as coumarin, which can be harmful to individuals with liver disease. Although coumarin is a precursor to the blood-thinner known as warfarin, the precursor found in plants does not affect the ability of blood to clot.
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Can Chronic Pain Cause High Blood Pressure
Chronic pain can cause high blood pressure for the following 4 reasons:
How Do I Know If I Have High Blood Pressure
Theres only one way to know if you have high blood pressure: Have a doctor or other health professional measure it. Measuring your blood pressure is quick and painless.
Talk with your health care team about regularly measuring your blood pressure at home, also called self-measured blood pressure monitoring.
High blood pressure is called the silent killer because it usually has no warning signs or symptoms, and many people do not know they have it.
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About High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is usually defined as having a sustained blood pressure of 140/90mmHg or above.
The line between normal and raised blood pressure is not fixed and depends on your individual circumstances. However, most doctors agree that the ideal blood pressure for a physically healthy person is around 120/80mmHg.
A normal blood pressure reading is classed as less than 130/80mmHg.
Chronic Pain And Hypertension
The link between chronic pain and high blood pressure is not as obvious as in acute pain. Several studies suggest that having chronic pain increases your risk of developing long-term hypertension. The most probable cause is that chronic pain wears out your endogenous opioid receptors. Just like acute pain, chronic pain will trigger the endogenous opioid response, but over time, as the pain continues, you run out of opioids. This has the effect of increasing your sensitivity to pain. The long-lasting pain causes hypertension.
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How Is Blood Pressure Measured
Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood pressing against the walls of the arteries. Its measured using two readings in millimetres of mercury . We recommend that all healthy adults have their blood pressure checked every two years at the minimum.
The first reading is the pressure of the arteries when the heart is squeezing blood out. The second reading is the pressure of the arteries when the heart is relaxing between each beat. If the readings are 120 systolic and 80 diastolic, this is said to be 120 over 80 and written as 120/80mmHg.
Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure is consistently high. Generally, these ranges are what you are looking for
- High blood pressure: anything above 140/90mmHg
- Normal blood pressure: should be below 120/80mmHg
- Low blood pressure: anything below 90/60mmHg .
Apart from having your blood pressure measured in a clinic or hospital, your doctor may advise you to measure your blood pressure in other ways, such as Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. This is a small machine that is on all day around your arm, measuring your blood pressure regularly during the day.
Another option is home blood pressure monitoring, which involves using your own electronic blood pressure machine .