Hidden everyday habits that silently elevate blood pressure

DDM News

Many people already know that salt can raise blood pressure.

This is because salt forces the body to retain more water.

That extra fluid puts pressure on the heart and blood vessels.

But salt isn’t the only factor that silently raises your blood pressure.

There are surprising daily activities and substances that also play a role.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that ignoring these factors could lead to long-term health risks for millions of Nigerians.

Health professionals say temporary blood pressure spikes aren’t always dangerous.

However, consistent high numbers over time can cause serious damage to the body.

Let’s explore some less-known triggers that elevate blood pressure levels.

Sugar: The sweet saboteur

Added sugar can be even worse than salt in raising blood pressure.

High-fructose corn syrup in processed foods is a major culprit.

Research shows people who consume more added sugar have significantly higher blood pressure.

One 24-ounce soda can increase systolic pressure by 15 points.

It can also raise diastolic pressure by 9 points.

This happens within a short period after consumption.

Soft drinks and sugary snacks may seem harmless but pose serious health threats.

The weight of loneliness

Loneliness doesn’t just affect your emotions, it impacts your heart too.

This is not simply about how many friends you have.

It’s about feeling emotionally connected and supported.

Over time, people who feel lonelier experience a gradual increase in blood pressure.

A study revealed that in four years, lonely individuals saw a 14-point rise in systolic pressure.

Psychologists believe this may stem from chronic stress and emotional alertness.

The constant fear of rejection may alter physical responses in the body.

Dangers of interrupted sleep

Sleep apnea is another hidden threat to your heart health.

This condition interrupts breathing several times during the night.

Each disruption triggers the nervous system to release stress chemicals.

These chemicals raise blood pressure.

In addition, lack of oxygen can harm blood vessels.

This makes it more difficult for the body to regulate pressure in the future.

Those with sleep apnea face a higher risk of heart disease.

The potassium puzzle

Potassium helps your kidneys balance fluid levels in the blood.

Without enough potassium, your blood pressure can rise, even if you eat less salt.

Many Nigerians lack potassium-rich foods in their diets.

Bananas are well known, but there are better options.

Leafy greens, water chestnuts, broccoli, and spinach are excellent sources.

Beans, fish, and low-fat dairy also help maintain healthy potassium levels.

Pain can spike your pressure

Acute pain activates the body’s nervous system.

This results in a temporary rise in blood pressure.

Even minor pain can cause this reaction.

Examples include placing a hand in ice water or pressing a fingernail.

These sudden discomforts can immediately increase both systolic and diastolic numbers.

Pain management is key for individuals already dealing with hypertension.

Herbal remedies aren’t always harmless

Many people use herbal supplements without knowing their full effects.

Some herbs can increase blood pressure or interfere with medications.

Examples include ginseng, ephedra, guarana, bitter orange, and St. John’s wort.

These may seem natural, but they are not always safe.

Always consult a doctor before mixing herbs with prescribed drugs.

Thyroid function and pressure

Thyroid hormones control how your heart and arteries function.

Low thyroid levels make the heart beat slower and stiffen arteries.

This leads to elevated LDL cholesterol, further worsening blood pressure.

In rare cases, too much thyroid hormone also poses risks.

It can make the heart beat too quickly and forcefully.

This increases strain on the cardiovascular system.

A full bladder’s hidden effects

Holding in urine longer than necessary may raise blood pressure.

Middle-aged women who delayed urination saw a 4-point rise in systolic pressure.

They also had a 3-point rise in diastolic pressure.

The same effect was noted in men and other age groups.

Emptying the bladder before taking a blood pressure reading ensures accuracy.

This is especially important for older adults.

Cold medications can constrict vessels

Decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine narrow blood vessels.

This increases resistance, which raises blood pressure.

These medications can also reduce the effectiveness of prescribed drugs.

People with high blood pressure should consult pharmacists for safer options.

This includes over-the-counter treatments for colds and sinus infections.

Dehydration and vessel tightening

When the body lacks water, blood vessels contract.

The brain sends signals that release a chemical to tighten them.

At the same time, kidneys reduce urine output to conserve fluid.

This tightens small blood vessels, especially around the heart and brain.

These reactions increase blood pressure, often without obvious symptoms.

Staying hydrated is essential for heart health.

Talking can raise your numbers

Simply speaking causes a temporary rise in blood pressure.

This effect occurs regardless of age or location.

Higher resting pressure leads to a greater spike when talking begins.

The emotional tone of conversation also matters.

A stressful or passionate topic can heighten the response.

This effect can last for several minutes after speaking stops.

The bigger picture for Nigerians

While salt remains a key concern, it is not the only issue.

Nigerians must be aware of hidden threats like sugar, loneliness, and herbal supplements.

Understanding these factors helps people make informed health choices.

DDM urges Nigerians to monitor their pressure regularly.

A healthy lifestyle, proper sleep, and emotional balance are crucial.

Always seek medical advice before starting new supplements ormedications.

Early detection and prevention are the best strategies against hypertension.

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