Do you know hypertension or high blood pressure can lead to serious health complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure? Yes, hypertension can have some serious impact on your health. Several factors like age, and certain medical conditions are well-known contributors to hypertension, there are several often-overlooked causes that can also elevate blood pressure levels. Here are seven lesser-known factors that can contribute to the development of hypertension:
Sleep Apnoea
Sleep apnoea is a disorder characterised by interrupted breathing during sleep, which can lead to repeated awakenings and reduced oxygen levels.
“Sleep apnoea if left untreated can cause a variety of health issues, including hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The severity of OSA might vary greatly. Lifestyle changes can help ease symptoms in moderation cases, but in more severe cases, medical attention may be required,” said Dr Viswesvaran Balasubramanian, Consultant, Interventional Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad. This condition is linked with higher nighttime blood pressure and greater variability in blood pressure, both of which can contribute to the development of hypertension.
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Intake of High sodium Through Pre packaged meals
While it’s commonly known that a diet high in salt can raise blood pressure, many people may not be aware of just how pervasive sodium is in their diet. Beyond table salt, high levels of sodium can be found in processed foods, canned goods, and pre-packaged meals, making it easy to consume excess sodium without realising it.
The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 milligrammes of sodium per day, with an ideal limit of 1,500 mg per day for most adults, particularly those with high blood pressure. Even reducing intake by 1,000 mg per day can enhance blood pressure and heart health.
Insufficient Potassium Intake
Potassium helps balance the amount of sodium in your cells, and not getting enough can lead to high blood pressure. A diet low in fruits, vegetables, and other potassium-rich foods can significantly affect your blood pressure.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Regular, heavy consumption of alcohol can raise blood pressure over time. Drinking more than moderate amounts of alcohol can dramatically raise blood pressure and also reduce the effectiveness of hypertension medications.
Chronic Stress
While stress itself can cause temporary increases in blood pressure, long-term stress can contribute to chronic hypertension. According to the National Library of Medicine, high fat and high sugar foods are highly palatable which may possess addictive qualities. Stress has a significant role in the development of addiction and it may raise the risk of obesity and other metabolic diseases.
Certain Medications
Various prescription and over-the-counter medications can raise blood pressure. These include certain antidepressants, hormonal contraceptives, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs. cAbove all other factors, exposure to heavy metals like lead and cadmium can affect blood pressure. Residents in areas with higher pollution levels or those who are exposed to these metals in their workplace may have an increased risk of hypertension.
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Addressing These Causes
Understanding and addressing these overlooked causes can help manage or even prevent high blood pressure. Here are a few strategies:
- Monitor your sleep: Consider being evaluated for sleep apnea if you experience symptoms like loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or witnessed pauses in breathing at night.
- Adjust your diet: Reduce sodium intake, increase consumption of potassium-rich foods, and maintain a balanced diet.
- Limit alcohol: Keep alcohol consumption within recommended limits—no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
- Manage stress: Develop healthy coping strategies such as exercise, meditation, or talking to a professional.
- Review medications: Discuss with your doctor the potential blood pressure effects of any medications you are taking.
By paying attention to these often-overlooked factors, you can take more comprehensive steps towards managing your blood pressure and improving your overall cardiovascular health.