Generally speaking the leading cause of hypertension is essential hypertension. Approximately 90-95 percent of all hypertension cases fit this category. The remaining cases fall into the category of secondary hypertension which is caused primarily by underlying conditions. However, the causes of essential hypertension are comparatively murky because it is generally not the result of a specific problem in the body and the cause is often unknown. When underlying conditions are identified (and assuming they can be fixed) secondary hypertension reverses and can go away. The causes of secondary hypertension include a long laundry list of conditions that your doctor will have to identify. For the purpose of this post I’m going to focus solely on the causes of essential hypertension which afflicts roughly 21 percent of Americans and is more abstract.
It is thought that 30 percent of essential hypertension is caused directly due to genetics. Certain genetic factors such as race and familial history can lead to an increased risk for hypertension. For instance children with two parents with hypertension have twice the risk of developing hypertension as the general population. People of African American decent also have increased risks for hypertension when compared to Caucasian or Asian ancestry.
Pulling genetic factors out of the equation that leaves approximately 15 percent of the population who have hypertension that cannot be explained either by underlying conditions or genetics. What then are the major causes of hypertension that can be avoided to lower your chances of developing high blood pressure? I’ve compiled a short list below of some causes that have been shown through clinical studies and medical research to increase risks for hypertension. I intend on adding to this list in the future so please return for updates or sign up for your free subscription to this blog for real time updates via RSS or email.
Causes of Hypertension Excluding Genetics & Secondary Hypertension
- OTC Drugs such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin have been shown to increase risk of hypertension by 25-35 percent.
- The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine found in many nutritional supplements and energy drinks has been shown to increase blood pressure.
- A sedentary lifestyle is closely associated with increased blood pressure.
- Using a good posture office chair has been shown to affect the regulating of blood pressure and can contribute to an decreased risk for hypertension.
- Consumption of too much salt has long been associated with high blood pressure. This is a leading cause of hypertension and it is the easiest changes you can make to your lifestyle. Eat foods which contain less sodium.
- Misaligned vertebra in the neck can cause high blood pressure. A simple alignment can lower blood pressure as well as make you feel better.
- Systemic inflammation has also been linked as a potential cause of hypertension. You can treat inflammation by simply cutting back on calories among other options.
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