Why does bp rise

In the long run, the body of a smoker produces more red blood cells and contributes to other changes which results in chronic hypertension. Apart from nicotine, several other substances can also cause a sudden increase in blood pressure. This includes medication, illicit drugs, alcohol and certain herbs. Salt is one of the major contributors to a sudden increase in blood pressure.

It is rapidly absorbed in the gut and alters blood pressure within a very short period of time. Contrary to popular belief, it is not table salt that is the biggest problem. Rather processed foods that are commonplace in the modern diet are laden with sodium which raises blood pressure.

The effect is more pronounced in people with kidney disorders. Therefore it is important that people suffering with hypertension and kidney diseases stay on a low sodium diet. This includes avoiding processed foods and using very small amounts of table salt, or none at all, in the daily diet.

Generally blood pressure tends to increase in winter and decrease during summer. It is a very slight alteration in BP but can nevertheless be significant in a person with hypertension. Cold causes the blood vessels on the surface of the body to constrict. This means that the heart has to work harder to circulate blood due to the resistance of the narrower vessels.

A sudden rise in blood pressure can occur if you walk into a climate controlled environment where the air conditioning is set on high. It can also occur if you step into a walk-in freezer. Older people may also experience sudden changes in blood pressure when the atmospheric pressure changes prior to a sudden weather shift. Please note that any information or feedback on this website is not intended to replace a consultation with a health care professional and will not constitute a medical diagnosis.

By using this website and the comment service you agree to abide by the comment terms and conditions as outlined on this page. Why does blood pressure change? Remember that there are three factors controlling blood pressure at any one time: The force and rate of the heart contraction.

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Anyone can have elevated blood pressure, even children, especially if they're overweight or obese. Both elevated blood pressure and high blood pressure increase your risk of a heart attack, stroke and heart failure. Some research suggests that long-term chronic elevated blood pressure may contribute to cognitive decline. Weight loss, exercise and other healthy lifestyle changes can often control elevated blood pressure, and set the stage for a lifetime of better health.

Elevated blood pressure doesn't cause symptoms. The only way to detect it is to keep track of your blood pressure readings. Have your blood pressure checked at each doctor's visit — or check it at home with a home blood pressure monitoring device. All people age 3 and older should have their blood pressure checked by a doctor at least once a year.

You might need more-frequent readings if you have elevated blood pressure or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Any factor that increases pressure against the artery walls can lead to elevated blood pressure. The buildup of fatty deposits in your arteries atherosclerosis can lead to high blood pressure. Besides atherosclerosis, other conditions that can lead to elevated blood pressure or high blood pressure include:.

Certain medications — including birth control pills, cold remedies, decongestants, over-the-counter pain relievers and some prescription drugs — also can cause blood pressure to rise temporarily. Illegal drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can have the same effect. Although elevated blood pressure and high blood pressure are most common in adults, children can be at risk, too. For some children, kidney or heart problems can cause high blood pressure.