Risk Factors and Warning Signs of Hypertension

Vitamin D Deficiency May Make You Vulnerable to Hypertension

Vitamin D is most well-known as vital to bone health by helping the body absorb calcium. However, the nutrient may also play an important role in the health of the blood vessels. Research suggests that people with vitamin D deficiency have an increased risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. So, making sure that you get enough vitamin D is an important part of maintaining overall health, especially as you age. But that doesn’t mean you need to take vitamin D supplements to prevent hypertension. In fact, there’s little evidence that the supplement can help prevent or treat the condition, and taking too much can cause serious health issues. The best source of vitamin D is sunlight. It costs nothing, and only around 10 minutes a day is needed. You can also get the vitamin through your diet by eating foods rich in nutrients, such as fatty fish, eggs, and mushrooms. Some foods, including milk, cereal, and orange juice, are also fortified with vitamin D.

Thyroid Problems Can Impact Blood Pressure

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate many vital body functions, including breathing, heart, digestion, and growth. Unsurprisingly, the thyroid also plays a role in regulating blood pressure. One hormone produced by the thyroid controls the dilation, or relaxation of arteries, which impacts blood pressure. The gland also supports the normal function of the kidney and heart, both of which closely affect blood pressure. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones. This can cause hypertension by weakening heart muscles, causing kidney dysfunction, or increasing the rigidity of the blood vessels. The production of excessive thyroid hormone, or hypertension, can also lead to hypertension by overexerting heart muscles.

High Blood Pressure Is a Side Effect of Certain Medications and Supplements

Many common medications and supplements can raise blood pressure and increase your hypertension risk. Studies show that the two most common over-the-counter pain relievers, NSAIDs (ibuprofen and naproxen) and acetaminophen (also called paracetamol), can raise blood pressure. Some cough and cold medicines may have the same effect. Certain medications to treat depression, anxiety, and ADHD can cause spikes in blood pressure, as can some hormonal birth control. Herbal supplements, including ginseng, licorice root, and guarana, may also increase blood pressure. Like conventional medicines, these supplements shouldn’t be taken without consulting a doctor, especially if you have or are at risk of hypertension.

Early Air Pollution Can Trigger High Blood Pressure Later in Life

Exposure to air pollution has been linked to an increased risk for hypertension. One recent study found that people who live in areas with moderate to high levels of air pollution had an increased incidence of hypertension. Another study found that exposure to air pollution in childhood increases a person’s risk of developing hypertension later in life. Being constantly exposed to pollutants in the air takes a toll on the blood vessels, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, dementia and cardiovascular disease. Most people are exposed to some level of air pollution on a daily basis. One way to reduce exposure is to monitor air quality and avoid going outside without a high-quality mask when air pollution is high.

Where Do We Find This Stuff? Here Are Our Sources:

Heart – Why High Blood Pressure is a “Silent Killer”

Mayoclinic – Hypertensive crisis: What are the symptoms?

Health Central – High Blood Pressure Unusual Symptoms: Could What You Feel Be More Serious?

AARP – 12 Surprising Things That Can Raise Your Blood Pressure

Cleveland Heart Lab – 4 Surprising Causes of High Blood Pressure

Very Well Health – Hypertension: Symptoms, Complications, When to Get Help

Good Rx – These 10 Medications Can Raise Your Blood Pressure

Mayoclinic – DASH diet: Healthy eating to lower your blood pressure