It is common to wonder if experiencing an illness can impact your blood pressure. While not every sickness will lead to an increase, certain physiological responses to illness can cause a temporary elevation in blood pressure readings.
How Illness Influences Blood Pressure
When the body faces an illness, it initiates a stress response that can directly affect blood pressure. This response involves the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol from the adrenal glands. Adrenaline causes the heart to beat faster and blood vessels to narrow, leading to a temporary rise in blood pressure.
Inflammation, a natural part of the immune system’s fight against infection, can also contribute to higher blood pressure. When the body’s immune system responds to a viral infection, cells release signaling molecules called cytokines. These cytokines can stimulate the release of endothelin-1, a peptide that constricts blood vessels, increasing resistance to blood flow and elevating blood pressure.
Dehydration, often accompanying illness due to fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, also impacts blood pressure. Reduced fluid volume can make blood thicker, causing the heart to work harder. The body compensates by releasing hormones like vasopressin, which constricts blood vessels and can raise blood pressure. Fever can also increase heart rate and blood pressure.
Everyday Ailments and Medications
Common illnesses like colds, the flu, and respiratory infections frequently cause temporary blood pressure changes. These conditions can increase heart rate and blood pressure, especially with a fever. The stress these ailments place on the cardiovascular system can elevate readings.
Certain over-the-counter medications used to alleviate illness symptoms can directly influence blood pressure. Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, narrow blood vessels to reduce congestion. This vasoconstrictive effect can cause blood vessels throughout the body to constrict, increasing overall blood pressure.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen, taken for pain or fever during an illness, can also elevate blood pressure. NSAIDs can cause the body to retain fluid and may decrease kidney function, both of which can lead to higher blood pressure readings. Individuals with pre-existing high blood pressure should be aware of these effects, as these medications can counteract blood pressure-lowering drugs.
Managing Blood Pressure While Sick
When experiencing elevated blood pressure while sick, several actions can help. Monitor blood pressure at home, especially if you have a history of hypertension. If readings consistently exceed 140/90 mmHg, consult a doctor.
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids like water or broth to maintain blood volume. Rest allows the body to recover without added strain.
Carefully consider over-the-counter medications. Avoid decongestants and NSAIDs if you have high blood pressure, as they can raise readings. Acetaminophen is often a safer alternative for pain and fever. Always seek advice from a healthcare provider before taking any new medication.
Seek medical attention if your blood pressure is consistently high (e.g., 140/90 mmHg or higher on multiple occasions), or if it reaches 180/110 mmHg or higher. Immediate medical care is necessary if very high readings are accompanied by symptoms like severe headache, blurry vision, chest pain, shortness of breath, numbness, weakness, or difficulty speaking.