Revealed: Non-obvious causes of high blood pressure

Unexpected culprits of hypertension: from sleep apnea to loneliness - what really raises your blood pressure

Therapist Akshay Sayal revealed to Today publication little-known factors that can trigger an increase in blood pressure, which many people don't even suspect.

According to the expert, most people know about the classic causes of hypertension: excess weight, tobacco smoking, alcohol, salty food, stress, and lack of sleep. However, there are other, less obvious factors that often remain in the shadows.

"If a person snores during sleep, the oxygen level in the blood drops, causing the heart to work a little harder to deliver oxygen to internal organs. Due to the increasing load on the myocardium, blood pressure may rise," the doctor explained.

Another non-obvious cause of high blood pressure, according to Dr. Sayal, is excess sugar in the diet. The fact is that sweet products and drinks often contain many carbohydrates that retain fluid in the body. This increases the volume of circulating blood and the load on blood vessels. It is known that poor condition of blood vessels also often "goes hand in hand" with diabetes.

Another hidden factor of hypertension is taking painkillers, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Ketoprofen). They can also contribute to water retention in the body.

The specialist reminded that the likelihood of developing hypertension increases in those who experience loneliness. This happens due to the connection between social isolation and stress - an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.