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what is reason of high blood pressure
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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #20289
48 days ago
86

what is reason of high blood pressure - #20289

Kiaan

I am really struggling with this issue and hoping to get some clarity from you guys. A few months ago, I went for a regular checkup and my doctor told me that I have high blood pressure. I was shocked because I always thought I lived a relatively healthy lifestyle—like, I exercise and try to eat right, you know? But now I'm just confused and worried about what is reason of high blood pressure for someone like me. I've done some reading and seen stuff about stress, weight, and even my family history, but I can't connect the dots. It felt so sudden! I can feel my heart racing sometimes, and it just makes me feel more anxious, which I guess could be a stress factor? I’m in my late 30s and I don’t smoke, drink only occasionally. Could it be diet? I’m wondering if there are specific foods that could be causing this too. I’ve heard salt is a biggie, but I thought I was managing that. If I cut out salt, will it really help? What is reason of high blood pressure in people who seem otherwise healthy? Should I be worried about medication? Like, how do I even know if that's necessary? Any insight would be really appreciated, because I feel like I'm spinning my wheels here just trying to get a grip on this high blood pressure situation. Thank you!

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Doctors' responses

High blood pressure, or hypertension, can indeed feel sudden and confusing, especially for someone who considers themselves relatively healthy. It’s a condition influenced by numerous factors, and sometimes it’s not one single cause but a combination. Firstly, you could be dealing with what’s called essential hypertension, which doesn’t have a clear direct cause but is influenced by genetics and lifestyle. Family history plays a big role, so if relatives have high blood pressure, that might be a clue. While you’re active and eat sensibly, sometimes dietary habits still contribute—salt intake can subtly add up over time. Pay attention not just to the salt added at the table but also hidden in processed and packaged foods. Cutting down on salt can indeed help, as it aids in reducing fluid retention and the strain on blood vessels.

On stress, as you’ve noticed, it affects your heart rate and blood pressure. Consider techniques like mindfulness and relaxation exercises to manage stress better; they can have a positive effect. Your occasional drinking is less likely a direct cause, but moderating alcohol consumption is usually advisable for heart health. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial too, and even small losses can lead to significant blood pressure improvements.

Regarding medication, your doctor might recommend it if lifestyle changes aren’t sufficient on their own to control your blood pressure levels, especially if readings stay high consistently. Monitoring at home with a BP cuff can provide additional, useful data to share with your healthcare provider, as blood pressure can vary at different times and situations.

It’s essential you’re proactive but don’t panic; discussing all these aspects and nuance with your doctor will help steer the right course. Regular follow-ups and possibly a customized plan will guide you whether lifestyle tweaks or medication adjustment or initiation could be the right steps forward.

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