7. Can stress cause high blood pressure?
It’s difficult to pin down the exact relationship between stress and hypertension, Dr. Giaimo says. “But we know when we look at population studies that include large groups of patients that certain stressors worsen cardiovascular disease as a whole,” he says. “We’re talking about things like financial burdens and living in communities where people feel marginalized.” He adds that loneliness is also a contributor, with studies showing that it can lead to poor adherence to treatment and poor follow-up to care.
8. How do I know if I am at risk for hypertension?
While anyone can develop high blood pressure, those with a family history or genetic predisposition toward the condition are at higher risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black Americans develop high blood pressure more often and earlier in life than whites, Hispanics, and other groups. Risk also increases with age—three out of every four Americans age 75 and older have high blood pressure.