What causes high blood pressure? Usually, doctors point to eating too much salty foods, lack of night sleep, stress. However, blood pressure can be influenced by several uncommon factors. Here are ten such factors:
Exposure to Arsenic
Consuming water or food contaminated with arsenic introduces toxins into the body. Over time, these toxins can damage blood vessels, resulting in elevated blood pressure.
Air Pollution
Long-term exposure to polluted air introduces harmful particles into the bloodstream. These particles can cause inflammation in blood vessels, leading to hypertension.
Chronic Pain
Persistent pain activates the body’s stress response, causing the release of stress hormones. These hormones can constrict blood vessels, resulting in increased blood pressure.
Licorice Consumption
Eating large amounts of licorice can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate sodium and potassium levels. This imbalance leads to fluid retention and increased blood pressure.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
This sleep disorder causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to reduced oxygen levels. The body’s response to these interruptions can increase blood pressure.
Certain Medications
Some over-the-counter and prescription drugs, such as nasal decongestants and specific antidepressants, can constrict blood vessels or alter heart rate, leading to higher blood pressure.
Lead Exposure
Coming into contact with lead, often through certain work environments or contaminated water, can harm the kidneys. Damaged kidneys struggle to regulate blood pressure effectively, leading to hypertension.
Thyroid Disorders
An overactive or underactive thyroid gland can disrupt the balance of hormones that regulate heart rate and blood vessel function, contributing to high blood pressure.
Pheochromocytoma
This rare tumor of the adrenal gland produces excess hormones that can cause sudden and severe spikes in blood pressure.
Coarctation of the Aorta
A congenital condition where a portion of the aorta is narrowed, forcing the heart to pump harder to circulate blood through the constricted area, leading to elevated blood pressure.
What Causes High Blood Pressure. Conclusion
Understanding what causes high blood pressure is important though medical treatments do not vary significantly. If you suspect any of these factors may be affecting your blood pressure, consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
