A broken bone, or fracture, occurs when a force exerted against a bone is stronger than it can bear, often from falls or direct trauma. Blood pressure is the force of circulating blood against artery walls. It is measured with two numbers: systolic pressure (when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (when the heart rests).
Immediate Physiological Responses to Fracture
When a bone breaks, the body initiates immediate physiological responses that can influence blood pressure. Acute pain, a common symptom of a fracture, triggers the sympathetic nervous system. This system, often associated with the “fight or flight” response, increases heart rate and constricts blood vessels, contributing to a temporary elevation in blood pressure.
The trauma of a fracture elicits a broader stress response. The adrenal glands release hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline causes the heart to beat faster and blood vessels to narrow, leading to an immediate rise in blood pressure. Cortisol also plays a role in increasing blood pressure as part of the body’s acute reaction to stress.
The body’s inflammatory response to injury commences rapidly at the fracture site. This process involves the release of chemical mediators, including cytokines, which are part of the systemic reaction to trauma. The overall systemic response to injury, encompassing both pain and inflammation, is known to cause a transient increase in blood pressure.
Other Factors Influencing Blood Pressure After Injury
Several factors can indirectly influence blood pressure following a bone fracture. Pain medications, frequently prescribed to manage discomfort, can affect blood pressure. Certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can raise blood pressure in some individuals. Anesthesia administered during fracture repair surgery can also cause temporary fluctuations, often a drop.
Reduced mobility and physical activity are common consequences of a bone fracture. Prolonged periods of inactivity can impact cardiovascular health. While immediate immobility might lead to orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing), long-term reduced activity can affect arterial function and blood pressure regulation.
Pre-existing health conditions can significantly affect how blood pressure responds to an injury. Individuals with pre-existing hypertension may experience an exacerbation due to the added stress of a fracture and its recovery. Conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease can further complicate blood pressure management following an injury.
When to Monitor and Seek Medical Advice
Monitoring blood pressure after a bone fracture is a prudent step, particularly for individuals with a history of hypertension or symptoms of elevated blood pressure. Regular checks can help identify unusual fluctuations. Symptoms like a persistent headache or dizziness could signal high blood pressure.
Contact a healthcare provider if blood pressure readings remain persistently high or if new symptoms emerge. A blood pressure reading of 180/120 mmHg or higher, especially with symptoms like severe headache, changes in vision, confusion, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
Temporary spikes in blood pressure are common after an injury due to the body’s stress response. If elevated readings continue beyond the acute phase or reach concerning levels, seek medical advice. While injury-induced blood pressure changes are often transient, ongoing high blood pressure requires evaluation to differentiate it from chronic hypertension.