14.2 : 影响血压的因素

The following factors affect blood pressure or BP.

Age affects blood pressure. As arteries lose elasticity with age, they are less able to dilate and absorb pressure changes, which causes blood pressure to fluctuate more frequently.

Next is circadian rhythm. The blood pressure is usually low in the morning. Then, it rises by 5 to 10 mmHg in the late afternoon and gradually decreases during sleep.

Gender influences blood pressure. Until menopause, women's blood pressure is usually lower than men's.

Lifestyle changes such as obesity, poor diet, excessive alcohol, high sodium intake, smoking, stress, and strenuous exercise can increase blood pressure.

Blood pressure is influenced by posture. A prone or supine position often results in lower blood pressure than a sitting or standing position.

Medications like birth control pills, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, and antidepressants can increase blood pressure.

Conversely, medications like angiotensin-converting enzyme or ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers are prescribed to help lower blood pressure.

Lastly, genetic factors increase the risk of hypertension in some people.