High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common health issue affecting millions of Americans. It often develops gradually over time and can lead to serious complications if not properly managed. At Macie Medical, we believe that understanding the causes of high blood pressure is the first step in preventing and treating it effectively.
In this article, we’ll explore what can cause blood pressure to be high, what affects high blood pressure, and common high blood pressure symptoms to watch for.
What Is High Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. When that pressure is consistently too high, it can damage your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and more.
There are two main types of high blood pressure:
- Primary (essential) hypertension – develops over time with no identifiable cause.
- Secondary hypertension – caused by underlying medical conditions or medications.
Most people don’t experience symptoms of high blood pressure, which is why it’s often called the “silent killer.” However, understanding what can lead to high blood pressure can help you take steps to reduce your risk.
What Can Cause Blood Pressure to Be High?
1. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits
One of the most common reasons for high blood pressure is lifestyle-related. These include:
- Poor diet – especially one high in sodium, saturated fats, and processed foods.
- Lack of physical activity – a sedentary lifestyle can weaken the heart and increase pressure on arteries.
- Excessive alcohol consumption – drinking too much alcohol regularly can raise blood pressure levels.
- Smoking or vaping – nicotine causes blood vessels to narrow and increases heart rate.
These habits, over time, can contribute significantly to what affects high blood pressure.
2. Obesity and Overweight
Carrying excess weight forces the heart to work harder, increasing the pressure on artery walls. Even losing a small amount of weight can make a big difference in managing your blood pressure.
3. Family History and Genetics
If hypertension runs in your family, your chances of developing it are higher. While you can’t control genetics, you can control lifestyle factors to reduce your risk.
4. Age and Gender
Blood pressure tends to rise as we age due to stiffening arteries. Men are more likely to develop high blood pressure before age 55, while women are at greater risk after menopause.
5. Chronic Health Conditions
Certain medical conditions are known to cause high blood pressure, including:
- Kidney disease
- Sleep apnea
- Thyroid disorders
- Diabetes
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g., adrenal gland tumors)
This type of hypertension is known as secondary high blood pressure, and managing the underlying condition is key to controlling it.
6. Stress and Mental Health
Chronic stress may contribute to temporary spikes in blood pressure. Additionally, stress can lead to poor health choices—like overeating, smoking, or drinking—that further elevate your risk.
High Blood Pressure Symptoms: What to Watch For
Most people with high blood pressure don’t show symptoms. However, in some cases, especially when blood pressure becomes dangerously high, you may notice:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Vision problems
- Nosebleeds
If you experience any of these symptoms of high blood pressure, especially if they occur suddenly or severely, seek medical attention immediately.
What Affects High Blood Pressure Long-Term?
High blood pressure that goes unmanaged can damage major organs over time. Long-term effects include:
- Heart disease and heart failure
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Vision loss
- Cognitive decline or dementia
That’s why early detection, lifestyle changes, and routine checkups are essential.
How Macie Medical Can Help
At Macie Medical, we provide comprehensive blood pressure screening, monitoring, and management in a caring and personalized environment. Our providers work with you to:
- Identify what can lead to high blood pressure in your lifestyle or medical history
- Develop a treatment plan including diet, exercise, and medications
- Monitor your progress with regular visits and check-ups
📍 Location: 777 S Fry Rd Ste 206, Katy, TX 77450
📞 Call Today: +1 (713) 300-3905 to schedule a blood pressure evaluation
