What causes high blood pressure

High blood pressure may be caused by various factors such as genetics, environmental factors, physiological factors, trauma, or pathology, and needs to be controlled through lifestyle adjustments, medication treatment, or surgical intervention.

1. Genetic factors play an important role in the onset of hypertension. If there is a history of hypertension in the family, the individual's risk of developing the disease will significantly increase. Hereditary hypertension is often associated with genetic mutations or familial inherited diseases, such as Liddle syndrome or Gordon syndrome. For such patients, it is recommended to regularly monitor blood pressure and use antihypertensive drugs such as calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, or beta blockers under the guidance of a doctor.

2. Environmental factors are also an important cause of hypertension. Long term high salt diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and alcohol consumption can all increase the risk of elevated blood pressure. A high salt diet can lead to an increase in sodium ion concentration in the body, which increases blood volume and thus raises blood pressure. It is recommended to limit daily salt intake to less than 5 grams, increase intake of potassium rich foods such as bananas, spinach, and potatoes, and maintain at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.

3. Physiological factors include age, gender, and weight. As age increases, vascular elasticity decreases and blood pressure naturally increases. Men have a higher risk of developing hypertension in middle age than women, but women have a significantly increased risk after menopause. Obesity is an important cause of hypertension, as adipose tissue secretes various hormones and inflammatory factors that affect vascular function. It is recommended to control weight through healthy diet and moderate exercise, and maintain a BMI between 18.5-24.9. 4. Trauma or surgery may temporarily increase blood pressure. For example, stress reactions after head trauma or surgery can cause blood pressure fluctuations. In this case, blood pressure usually gradually returns to normal as the body recovers, but it needs to be closely monitored and if necessary, short acting antihypertensive drugs such as nifedipine or labetalol should be used.

5. Pathological factors include kidney disease, endocrine disease, and cardiovascular disease. Chronic kidney disease can lead to retention of water and sodium, increase blood volume, and thus raise hypertension. Endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism or Cushing's syndrome can also cause elevated blood pressure. Cardiovascular diseases such as coarctation of the aorta or atherosclerosis can also lead to hypertension. For these diseases, antihypertensive drugs such as diuretics, angiotensin receptor antagonists, or alpha blockers should be used in addition to treating the underlying disease. High blood pressure is a multifactorial disease that requires corresponding treatment measures based on the specific cause. By adjusting lifestyle, rational medication, and regular monitoring, blood pressure can be effectively controlled and the risk of cardiovascular disease can be reduced. For patients with poor long-term blood pressure control, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo comprehensive examination and treatment.