7 causes of high blood pressure
that are NOT related to age
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the blood pressure in blood vessels is higher than normal. This issue is commonly associated with age, but there are other causes that can lead to this problem. In this article, we will explore:
7 causes of high blood pressure that are not related to age.
Obesity is one of the biggest risk factors for arterial hypertension. Excess body mass affects many aspects of health, including the functioning of the circulatory system. People who are overweight and obese often have higher blood pressure because their hearts have to pump more blood to meet the needs of tissues and organs. Obesity and being overweight also increase the risk of other diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, digestive problems, joint diseases, and many others.
A poor diet that is rich in salt, saturated fat, and sugar is another significant factor contributing to an increase in blood pressure. Eating large amounts of salt can lead to an increase in blood volume and blood pressure, while eating large amounts of saturated fats can contribute to an increase in cholesterol levels in the blood. Similarly, eating large amounts of sugar can lead to obesity and diabetes, which are also associated with high blood pressure.
Lack of physical activity is another primary risk factor for arterial hypertension. Too little movement can lead to obesity, which increases the risk of heart disease and hypertension. People who lead a sedentary lifestyle are at a higher risk of developing hypertension compared to those who lead an active lifestyle.
Cigarette smoking is considered one of the risk factors for heart disease and circulatory system disorders, including arterial hypertension. The toxic elements in cigarettes, such as nicotine and carbon monoxide, can narrow blood vessels and increase the risk of arterial damage, leading to increased vascular resistance and high blood pressure.
Prolonged stress is another factor that can affect blood pressure. Long-term stress can cause muscle tension and lead to an increase in adrenaline and cortisol hormones in the blood, which can influence blood pressure. Studies show that individuals who experience prolonged stress have a higher risk of developing arterial hypertension.
Kidney diseases such as diabetic nephropathy can cause high blood pressure. Diabetic nephropathy is one of the most common complications of diabetes, and its presence can lead to kidney damage and high blood pressure. When the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which regulates blood pressure, is disturbed, it can lead to an increase in blood pressure.
Lastly, genetics is another risk factor for arterial hypertension as it can be inherited from one generation to another. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce the risk of diseases associated with arterial hypertension.
If you want to lower your blood pressure and improve your heart health, it's worth taking a few actions:
Reduce your salt intake - too much salt can cause an increase in blood pressure. Replace salty snacks and dishes with healthy alternatives such as fruits and vegetables.
Increase your potassium intake - potassium helps regulate blood pressure and reduces the negative effects of salt. Eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas, avocados, spinach, and pumpkin.
Engage in regular physical activity - regular exercise helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Find an activity you enjoy and do it regularly.
Avoid stress - stress can increase blood pressure. Find ways to reduce stress such as meditation, yoga, or relaxing baths.
Reduce alcohol and cigarette consumption - excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can increase blood pressure and lead to serious health problems.


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