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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #17351
79 days ago
149

what causes bp high - #17351

Mira

I am a bit worried about my blood pressure issues. Lately, every time I check it, it's high, and I'm not sure what causes bp high for me. I've always been relatively healthy, but I’ve noticed I'm much more stressed at work. My job has been really demanding, long hours, and I am not sleeping well at all. I used to workout a few times a week, but I just don’t have the time now. My dad had high blood pressure, so I know it runs in my family, but does that really mean I'm destined to deal with this too? I went to the doctor last week and they said my readings were concerning, but when they asked me about my diet, I didn't think much of it since I eat fruits and veggies. But, I do indulge in takeout multiple times a week. Honestly, I'm just super confused! What causes bp high in a scenario like mine? Is it mostly the stress and food or is genetics playing a bigger role? How can I even know what part of my lifestyle I should really be focusing on here? It feels overwhelming!

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Doctors' responses

There are several factors that can contribute to high blood pressure, and in your situation, it seems like a combination of lifestyle and genetic factors could be at play. Stress, especially when combined with poor sleep, can contribute significantly to elevated blood pressure. It triggers the release of hormones that can increase heart rate and constrict blood vessels, raising your blood pressure. The lack of regular physical activity further compounds this, as exercise is key in managing stress and reducing blood pressure. Genetics indeed plays a role; having a family history like your dad dealing with high blood pressure means you might be more predisposed, but it’s not a definite fate. It just implies you may need to be more vigilant.

Your diet, although it includes fruits and veggies, could be problematic if the takeout meals are high in sodium or unhealthy fats. Sodium can cause your body to retain water, increasing blood volume and pressure, while unhealthy fats can contribute to atherosclerosis, narrowing arteries and making it harder for blood to flow. Start by evaluating and adjusting your diet, focusing on reducing sodium intake. Aim for home-cooked meals when possible, emphasizing whole grains, lean proteins, and those fruits and veggies that you already value.

Reintroducing even small amounts of physical activity can be beneficial. Consider short, stress-relieving exercises or stretching that don’t require much time, such as quick walks or home-based routines. Finally, addressing sleep through better sleep hygiene practices is crucial - aim for a regular sleep schedule and create a calming bedtime environment. Monitoring your blood pressure at different times of day can help identify any patterns, but given that your readings are already concerning, stay in touch with your healthcare provider for regular check-ins. They might recommend more rigorous interventions if lifestyle changes aren’t sufficient. Prioritize these adjustments in a way that feels manageable, and keep your healthcare provider looped in on your progress.

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