High blood pressure is a common health problem, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is also known as hypertension and can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure if left untreated.

While lifestyle factors such as a poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress are often blamed for high blood pressure, there are some uncommon factors that may be contributing. Here are ten uncommon factors that may be causing your high blood pressure:.

1. Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes disruptions in breathing during sleep. It is linked to high blood pressure because the pauses in breathing cause a rise in blood pressure as the body works harder to get enough oxygen.

Sleep apnea is more common in people who are overweight, but it can affect anyone. If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about getting a sleep study.

2. Medications

There are many medications that can cause high blood pressure as a side effect. Some common medications that can raise blood pressure include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), decongestants, and birth control pills.

If you are taking medication and have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about alternatives.

3. Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease is a condition where the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter waste from the blood as effectively. This can lead to high blood pressure, as well as other complications such as anemia and bone disease.

If you have chronic kidney disease, managing your blood pressure is essential for reducing your risk of additional health problems.

4. Adrenal Disorders

The adrenal glands produce hormones that regulate blood pressure among other things.

Disorders of the adrenal glands such as Cushing’s syndrome, which results in too much cortisol, or pheochromocytoma, which causes excess adrenaline, can lead to high blood pressure. If you have unexplained high blood pressure, your doctor may order tests to check your adrenal function.

5. Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause high blood pressure by increasing or decreasing the heart rate.

If you have a thyroid disorder, managing it properly can help control your blood pressure as well.

6. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

OSA is a sleep disorder that involves repeated episodes of complete or partial blockage of the upper airway during sleep. Snoring is a common symptom of OSA. It is more common in people who have obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

OSA can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. Treatment for OSA may include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, or medical devices that help keep the airway open during sleep.

7. Chronic Stress

Long-term stress can lead to high blood pressure because it causes the body to release hormones that increase heart rate and blood pressure. There are many ways to manage stress, including exercise, meditation, and taking time to relax and unwind.

8. Chronic Anxiety

Chronic anxiety can lead to high blood pressure because it causes the body to release adrenaline and other stress hormones. If you have anxiety, talk to your doctor about treatment options such as therapy or medication.

9. Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can lead to high blood pressure because the body is in a constant state of stress. Pain can also lead to decreased activity levels and weight gain, which can contribute to high blood pressure.

If you have chronic pain, talk to your doctor about management options.

10. Secondary Hypertension

Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure that is caused by an underlying condition such as kidney disease or a hormonal disorder.

If you have secondary hypertension, treating the underlying condition is essential for controlling your blood pressure.

Conclusion

High blood pressure is a common health problem that can lead to serious health complications.

While lifestyle factors such as a poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress are often blamed for high blood pressure, there are many uncommon factors that can contribute as well. If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about these potential factors and how to manage them. By working together, you can reduce your risk of complications and improve your overall health.