What causes high blood pressure

High blood pressure may be caused by genetic, environmental, physiological, traumatic, or pathological factors. Common causes include genetic susceptibility, high salt diet, obesity, lack of exercise, chronic kidney disease, etc. Blood pressure control can be achieved through medication, dietary adjustments, exercise interventions, and other methods.

1. Genetic factors: People with a family history of hypertension have a higher risk of developing the disease. Genetic susceptibility may lead to increased sensitivity of blood vessels to sodium, resulting in elevated blood pressure. It is recommended that individuals with a family history regularly monitor their blood pressure and receive early intervention.

2. Environmental factors: High salt diet, long-term stress, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are common external factors that lead to elevated blood pressure. A high salt diet can increase the sodium content in the body, leading to an increase in blood volume and ultimately hypertension. It is recommended to reduce salt intake, control daily salt intake below 5 grams, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, and maintain emotional stability.

3. Physiological factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, and aging can also affect blood pressure. Obesity increases the burden on the heart, leading to elevated blood pressure; Lack of exercise can cause a decrease in vascular elasticity and increase the risk of hypertension. It is recommended to control weight through a healthy diet and moderate exercise, and engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week.

4. Trauma: Head or chest trauma may temporarily increase blood pressure, and in severe cases may lead to secondary hypertension. After trauma, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly, undergo relevant examinations, and eliminate potential risks.

5. Pathological factors: chronic kidney disease, diabetes, thyroid dysfunction and other diseases may cause secondary hypertension. Chronic kidney disease can lead to retention of water and sodium, increase blood volume, and then raise hypertension. It is recommended to have regular physical examinations, seek timely treatment for related diseases, and control the primary disease. In terms of drug therapy, commonly used antihypertensive drugs include diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide, calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors such as enalapril. Dietary adjustments can increase the intake of foods rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium, such as bananas, spinach, and milk, and reduce the intake of high-fat and high sugar foods. Exercise interventions can include aerobic activities such as brisk walking, swimming, and cycling, and should be performed 3-5 times a week. The causes of high blood pressure are complex and diverse, and need to be comprehensively judged based on individual circumstances. Through medication treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and regular monitoring, blood pressure can be effectively controlled and the risk of complications can be reduced. It is recommended that hypertensive patients maintain communication with their doctors, develop personalized treatment plans, and adhere to long-term management.