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. The specific reasons include genetic susceptibility, high salt diet, obesity, long-term stress, kidney disease, etc. Treatment methods include dietary control, exercise, antihypertensive drugs, etc.

1. Genetic factors play an important role in the occurrence of hypertension. People with a history of hypertension in their family have a significantly increased risk of developing the disease. Genes may affect vascular tone, kidney function, etc., leading to abnormal blood pressure regulation. It is recommended that individuals with a family history regularly monitor their blood pressure and receive early intervention.

2. The influence of environmental factors on blood pressure cannot be ignored. High salt diet is a common inducement, excessive intake of sodium ions will lead to water retention in the body, increase blood volume and blood pressure. Long term exposure to high-pressure work or living environments can also trigger sympathetic nervous system excitation, leading to elevated blood pressure. Reducing salt intake and maintaining psychological balance are effective preventive measures.

3. Physiological factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, and hypertension are closely related. Overweight can increase the burden on the heart, and hormones secreted by adipose tissue may also affect blood pressure regulation. Prolonged sitting can weaken cardiovascular function and increase the risk of disease. By controlling weight and engaging in regular exercise such as brisk walking, swimming, yoga, etc., blood pressure can be effectively lowered.

4. Trauma or surgery may cause temporary elevation of blood pressure. After severe trauma or major surgery, the body's stress response can trigger blood pressure fluctuations. This condition usually subsides with physical recovery, but requires close monitoring and medication control if necessary.

5. Pathological factors include kidney disease, endocrine disorders, etc. The kidney is an important organ for regulating blood pressure. Abnormal renal function will lead to water and sodium retention and elevated blood pressure. Endocrine diseases such as hyperthyroidism and Cushing's syndrome can also affect blood pressure through hormones. Treating the primary disease is the key to controlling blood pressure. In terms of treatment methods, mild hypertension can be improved through lifestyle adjustments. We recommend a low salt, low-fat, and high fiber DASH diet, such as increasing intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. It is recommended to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as jogging or cycling. For moderate to severe hypertension, doctors may prescribe antihypertensive drugs such as diuretic hydrochlorothiazide, beta blocker metoprolol, calcium channel blocker amlodipine, etc. Severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as angioplasty for patients with renal artery stenosis.

High blood pressure is the result of a combination of multiple factors, and prevention and treatment should be carried out from multiple aspects such as genetics, environment, physiology, etc. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical attention in a timely manner are key to controlling hypertension. For patients who have already been diagnosed, following medical advice for standardized treatment and adjusting their lifestyle can effectively reduce the risk of complications and improve their quality of life.